Messerschmitt Bf 161

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Bf 161
Bf 161 v2.jpg
Role Reconnaissance monoplane
National originGermany
Manufacturer Messerschmitt
First flight1938
Primary user Luftwaffe
Number built2
Developed from Messerschmitt Bf 110

The Messerschmitt Bf 161 was a 1930s prototype German reconnaissance aircraft.

Contents

Development

The Bf 161 was a specialised reconnaissance aircraft, based on the Bf 110, and similar to the Bf 162, designed as a light bomber. The prototype V1 was powered by two Junkers Jumo 210 inline engines and first flew on 9 March 1938. It was followed by a second prototype, V2, powered by two Daimler-Benz DB 600a engines which first flew on 30 August 1938.

The aircraft did not enter production, as it was soon decided that a new aircraft type was not needed, and variants of the Bf 110 could perform the reconnaissance role.

Operational history

The two prototypes were used for research and development, and V2 was used in Augsburg for towing the Me 163A Komet, later moving to Peenemünde to continue towing.

Specifications (Bf 161 V1)

General characteristics

Performance

See also

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