Fw 190F-3/R1 with additional ETC 50 bomb racks under each wing
The Fw 190F series emerged as a response to the pressing need for a more capable replacement for the aging Ju 87 dive bombers and ground attack aircraft. With the constraints of time and resources preventing the development of a new aircraft from scratch, the Fw 190A’s adaptability and robustness made it a prime candidate for this role.
Key Features and Developments:
Adaptation for Ground Attack:
- The Fw 190F series was specifically designed from the outset as a ground attack platform, unlike earlier models that were primarily fighters converted for ground attack duties through various field conversion kits.
Reinforcements and Modifications:
- The aircraft featured a reinforced undercarriage to handle the increased takeoff weight and the stresses of ground attack missions. The pilot, engine, and fuel tanks were better protected by approximately 360 kg of armor.
- The intake scoops outside the engine cowling were designed to accommodate tropical filters, essential for operations in hotter climates.
Ordnance and Equipment:
- The F-series included the ETC 501 bomb racks under the fuselage and ER 4 racks under the wings, capable of carrying four 50 kg bombs. An automatic camera was also installed for reconnaissance purposes.
- These aircraft were initially based on the strengthened wing of the A-6 series, ensuring structural integrity despite the added weight and stress.
Variants and Production:
- The Fw 190F-1, based on the A-4/U3, saw about 30 units produced in 1943. This initial variant was essentially a modification of an existing fighter model into a ground attack role.
- The Fw 190F-2 was derived from the A-5/U3, with 271 units delivered. It was armed with two MG 17 machine guns, two MG 151 cannons, and equipped with the ETC 501 rack for various air-to-ground ordnance. Many of these aircraft operated in Mediterranean theaters, including Italy and Tunisia, often fitted with tropical equipment.
- The Fw 190F-3, introduced in May 1943 by Arado, was a follow-on from the A-5/U17, with a total of 247 units produced. The F-3/R1 variant included the R1 conversion kit, while the F-3/R3 variant saw only three examples produced.
Performance Considerations:
- The addition of bomb racks, bombs, and other external stores significantly impacted the aircraft’s performance, particularly in speed and climb rate. For instance, an R1 kit with a 4xSC 50 configuration (four 50 kg bombs) reduced airspeed by 10-12 km/h at sea level and 20 km/h at around 6000 meters. Climb rate dropped by 1.3 meters per second at 2400 rpm, and range was reduced by approximately 37 kilometers.
The Fw 190F series thus represented a versatile and effective adaptation of the Fw 190 platform for ground attack roles, balancing the need for increased armament and armor with the inherent limitations of modifying a fighter aircraft for such purposes.