Ju 88A-4 coded M7+CK of the KGr 806
The Ju 88A-4 was the most widely produced and arguably the most significant variant of the Junkers Ju 88 series, a multi-role aircraft employed by the Luftwaffe during World War II. This version was a major improvement over its predecessors, incorporating numerous design changes and enhancements based on combat experience, particularly from the Battle of Britain.
Key Features and Modifications:
Wing Design: One of the most significant changes in the Ju 88A-4 was the modification of the wing design. The wingspan was increased from 18.25 meters to 20.08 meters, which greatly improved the aircraft’s performance, especially during dive-bombing attacks. Additionally, the fabric covering of the ailerons was replaced with metal covering, which contributed to the aircraft’s structural integrity.
Engines: The Ju 88A-4 was powered by two Jumo 211F-1 or Jumo 211J engines, each rated at 1,400 horsepower. These engines were distinctive for their eccentrically bulged undersides due to the addition of extra radiators and air intakes located in the lower portion of the front ring-shaped cooler. The propellers used were either metal VDMs or wooden VS 11s, depending on availability. However, due to delays in engine production, the assembly of the A-4 variant did not begin until early 1941.
Cockpit and Armor: The experience gained from the Battle of Britain led to a redesign of the cockpit, which now featured improved light armor protection. This included a thick-formed sheet metal pilot’s seat, which replaced the previous armor plates behind the seat. The aircraft’s defensive armament was also upgraded, with factory-installed belt-fed MG 81 machine guns (7.92 mm) positioned in the windshield, in two Linsenlafette Z10D barbettes (in the dual bulged dorsal rear-facing housing), and in a double MG 81Z mounted in the rear of the ventral cupola in a Bodenlafette (Bola) 39 barbette. By late 1941, an improved Bola 81 was introduced. Additionally, a 13-mm belt-fed MG 131 was installed in the nose, which often replaced the MG 81 in field modifications.
Bomb Load and Racks: The Ju 88A-4 was designed to carry a maximum bomb load of 3,000 kg. The aircraft was equipped with ETC 500/IXb, ETC 500/IXd, or Schloß 500/1000/XI bomb racks mounted under the center wing section. These racks could carry two 1,000 kg bombs, four 500 kg bombs, or a combination of two 1,000 kg bombs with two 250 kg or 500 kg bombs. This configuration was particularly useful for attacking point targets. For level bombing missions, the bomb bay could accommodate up to ten or twenty-eight 50 kg bombs. The bay and underwing racks were also adapted to carry additional fuel tanks, with capacities of 900 liters (under the center wing section), 1,220 liters, or 3,680 liters.
Undercarriage and Wheels: To accommodate the increased load, the Ju 88A-4 was fitted with stronger undercarriage legs and larger wheels (1140×410 mm, compared to the previous 1100×375 mm size).
Avionics and Other Equipment: The aircraft was equipped with a new antenna mast, a FuG 25a identification device, an FZ 6 radio direction finder, and a FuG 101 altimeter. Some units were also fitted with devices to cut barrage balloon cables, enhancing their survivability during low-altitude missions.
The Ju 88A-4’s versatility, durability, and improved design made it a critical component of the Luftwaffe’s bomber fleet, capable of performing a wide range of missions, from dive-bombing to level bombing, and even anti-ship roles. Its production numbers and the numerous variants that stemmed from the A-4 attest to its importance in the Luftwaffe’s operations during the war.