Junkers Ju 88 P-1 from Versuchskommando für Panzerbekämpfung, 1943
In the summer of 1942, the Eastern Front saw a pressing need for an effective anti-tank aircraft, which led to various modifications of the Ju 88 series to fulfill this role. A few Ju 88C-4s were adapted in the field to carry six Nebelwerfer rockets, earning them the unofficial designation “Ju 88N” or “Ju 88Nbwe.”
Junkers, recognizing the need for a more potent anti-tank platform, developed their own version by equipping a Ju 88V52 prototype (W. Nr 2047), based on the A-4 variant, with a powerful 75-mm KwK 39 cannon. This aircraft retained the standard Jumo 211J engines and featured a glazed nose. The cannon was mounted in a ventral cupola, which also housed two backward- and rear-firing MG 81Z machine guns, while two additional MG 81s were installed in the dorsal position.
Ju 88P Series Development:
Ju 88P-1:
- Trials at the Tarnewitz proving ground revealed the need for further modifications. The Ju 88P-1 was then developed with a solid nose from the Ju 88C, armor added to the engine undersides, and a 75-mm PAK 40L cannon with an enlarged muzzle brake. This variant saw combat use with Panzerjägerstaffel 92 on the Eastern Front. However, the P-1 was vulnerable to enemy fighters due to its cumbersome nature, necessitating fighter escorts. Additionally, the cannon’s low rate of fire limited its effectiveness.
Ju 88P-2:
- To improve the P-1’s shortcomings, the P-2 variant was developed, featuring two high-rate BK 3.7 FlaK 18 cannons (37 mm) mounted in a ventral cupola, capable of firing tungsten-core shells. The rear armament configuration remained unchanged with two MG 81Zs. Some of these aircraft were also adapted for fighter roles, employed both day and night to counter heavy bombers.
Ju 88P-3:
- The P-3 was similar to the P-2 but included additional cockpit and engine armor along with an armored windshield to enhance the crew’s protection during missions.
Ju 88P-4:
- This variant was armed with a BK 5 cannon (50 mm) and had a dorsal MG 131 machine gun for additional defensive capability.
The Ju 88P series saw action on the Eastern Front in 1944, where they were also employed in attacks on trains. Additionally, one machine was tested with RZ 65 rockets mounted under the wings, though these modifications were not widely adopted. The series represented a continuous effort to balance firepower, protection, and survivability in the harsh and evolving conditions of the Eastern Front.