| The
Albatross DIII is one of the classic fighters of
WWI, despite being plagues by wing failures under
extreme flying conditions. Manufactured initially by
Albatross, production was moved in Spring 1917 to
the OAW subsidiary, to allow Albatross to
concentrate on DV production. The most noticeable
difference between the aircraft was the shape of the
rudder, which was larger on OAW manufactured
aircarft, as depicted in this model. Powered by a 6
cylinder 160hp Mercedes water cooled engine.
The Albatross DIII was a significant improvement on
the DII, being a sesquiplane with the characteristic
narrow lower wing.
It enjoyed good maneuverability and speed, with very
good dive capabilities. However, the single spar of
the narrow lower wing allowed the wing to twist to
such an extent that it would fail in prolonged
dives.
Its top speed was significantly faster than the DII,
reaching 109 MPH.
The rockers on the Albatross' motor, need to be seen
to believed!
Wingspan: 29.8 feet
Length: 24 feet
Weight 1484 lbs(673 Kg) empty \ 2002 lbs(908 Kg)
gross
Engine: Mercedes D.IIIa, liquid cooled, 901 CiD, 6
cylinder inline, 160 hp
Max Speed: 109 mph / 94.7 kts [175 km/h] at 3,281 ft
[1,000 m]
Ceiling: 18,044 ft [5,500 m]
Endurance: 2 hours
Armament: 2 Spandau light machine guns
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