History
The forerunner of the G. III was a successful bomber in 1917 was succeeded by the Friedrichshafen G. III (factory designation FF.45).
It was taller and had a larger wingspan than its predecessor.
G. II tended to head stand when landing; at
the G III, this was compensated by adding a nose wheel.
Furthermore the G.II had two more powerful Mercedes D.IVa engines of 260 horsepower each, so a bomb load of 1000 kg could be carried.
Versions.
- Friedrichshafen G. IIIa:
- had a modified wing, which improved handling in flight on one engine. Furthermore, a third machine gun was added for defence against night fighters.
- Friedrichshafen G. IIIb:
- was a further modified version, the rear gunner having now a connection with the rest of the crew.
After the war, various G.IIIs were adapted and used as passenger aircraft.
Dimensions: | |||
Length: | 7,15 m | Wing span: | 13,46 m |
Height: | 3,35 m | Wing surface: | 39 m2 |
Weigths: | |||
Empty weight: | 802 kg | Full Weight: | 1120 kg |
Performance: | |||
Max. speed: | 158 km/hr | Rate of climb: | - m/min |
Reach: | 450 km | Service level: | 5000 m |
Miscellaneous: | |||
Engine: | One 160 pk Mercedes D.III | ||
Crew: | One pilot plus one observer/air gunner | ||
Armament: | One fixed Spandau LMG-08/15 machine-gun plus one rotating Parabellum MG-14 machine-gun. A bomb-load of 100 kb max. |