JU87 Stuka (AC002) Junkers Ju-87 Sturzkampfflugzeug D and G The Ju-87 Stuka was introduced into service in 1936 with the A model. Various improvements to its power and weapons had by 1941 bought about the D model. Thought its design seems somewhat clunky and old fashioned the Stuka provided good service to the Luftwaffe and her allies in the ground attack role. Despite the initial perception the Stuka included some innovative features, such as an automatic pull-up system to ensure that the plane recovered from a dive even if the pilot lost consciousness from the G-forces.

Its landing gear, while doing nothing for its aerodynamics, was very strong and allowed it to land on rough improvised airfields near the front line. Of course there were the famous sirens. Junkers named them the "Trumpets of Jericho", they were fitted to the wheel covers and would screech loudly when diving, warning of their imminent arrival and spreading terror.

The Stuka suffered from low manoeuvrability and slow speed, making it highly vulnerable to enemy fighters. During 1942-3 the Stuka served in the Desert War and also on the Eastern Front. Soviet airpower increased as the war progressed and the Stuka squadrons suffered very heavy losses.         Over six thousand Ju-87 Stukas were built between 1936 and August 1944.

Technical Data Ju-87D Ju-87G Production 1941-1944 Refitted Ju-87D Role Ground Attack Anti-tank Length 11.1m 11.1m Wingspan 13.8m 13.8m Height 3.9m 3.9m Wing Area 31.90m² 31.90m² Maximum Weight 5720kg 5100kg Engine Junkers Jumo 211J Junkers Jumo 211J Maximum Power 1410hp, 1037kW 1410hp, 1037kW Dive Speed 600km/h

Range with bombs 1165km 1000km Ceiling 9000m 7500m Climb 3000m in 14 min 3000m in 13.6 min Forward Guns 2×7.92mm MG 17 2×7.92mm MG 17 2×37mm BK 37 Rear Guns 1×7.92mm MG 81Z(twin MG 81) 1×7.92mm MG 81Z(twin MG 81) Maximum Bombs 1800kg None Typical Bombs 1×500/1000kg + 4×50 kg None