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.

 

Technical information
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.