Long-range fighter Ju 88H-2
Ju 88H Series – Long-Range Reconnaissance and Destroyer Variants
The Ju 88H series was an extended range development of the Ju 88D, designed to support U-boat operations over the Atlantic by conducting long-range reconnaissance missions. This variant featured several modifications to increase fuel capacity, range, and functionality.
Ju 88H Prototype (V89)
- First Flight: November 2, 1943 (W.Nr 430820, RG+RP).
- Engines: Powered by BMW 801ML engines.
- Structural Modifications:
- A 99 cm extension added forward of the leading edges and a 230 cm extension aft of the trailing edge to accommodate additional fuel tanks, increasing range.
- The wingspan was also increased to support the larger airframe and extra fuel.
- Reconnaissance Equipment: Three Robot Rb 70/30 and Rb 50/30 cameras were mounted in the rear fuselage for high-altitude and low-altitude photography.
- Armament: The prototype featured two MG 81Z machine guns in a ventral pod and one MG 81 each in the windshield and rear post for defense.
- Radar: Equipped with FuG 200 Hohentweil radar for maritime reconnaissance.
Ju 88H-1
- Reconnaissance Version:
- Engines: Powered by BMW 801D engines producing 1700 hp.
- Radar: Equipped with FuG 220 Lichtenstein SN-2 radar for detecting targets over long distances.
- Range: Maximum range of 5130 km, making it ideal for long-range Atlantic reconnaissance missions.
- Production: Only ten were built.
Ju 88H-2
- Zerstörer (Destroyer) Version:
- Engines: Powered by BMW 801D-2 engines.
- Wing Span: Slightly reduced to 20.08 meters.
- Armament:
- Two MG 151/20 cannons in a closed nose for forward-firing offense.
- Four additional MG 151/20 cannons in a ventral pod, making it a heavily armed version designed to engage enemy aircraft or ships.
- Radar and Cameras: This version lacked the radar and cameras seen on the H-1, focusing instead on a combat role.
- Production: Only five units were built.