Focke-Wulf Ta 152

A direct descendant of the Focke-Wulf Fw 190 the aim was to improve high altitude performance and the main changes featured hydraulically powered flaps and landing gear replacing the electrically actuated system. The prototype, designated Ta 152A, was powered by the Junkers Jumo 213A engine and flew for the first time on the 7th July 1943, however this would progress no further after three prototypes had been built. The Ta 152B, none built, and Ta 152C which made its maiden flight on the 19th November 1944 powered by the 2,100-hp Daimler-Benz DB 603LA engine followed. Whilst a planned photo reconnaissance version known as the Ta 152E only reached the prototype stage.

The only production version would be the Focke-Wulf Ta 152H series and the prototype flew for the first time on the 12th July 1944. The production Ta 152H was powered by the 1,820-hp Junkers Jumo 213E engine. Its top speed was 472 mph with a range of 745 miles and a service ceiling of 48,560 ft. Armament consisted of one 30mm Mk 108 cannon and two 20mm MG 151/20 cannons.

Erprobungskommando Ta 152 was formed at Rechlin, Germany, which at that time was used by the Luftwaffe as its main testing facility, on the 2nd November 1944. They would put the aircraft through a series of tests in preparation for its entry into service. The 23rd January 1945 saw Erprobungskommando Ta 152 renamed III./JG 301 and four days later the Ta 152H-1 entered service with them, although only twelve had been delivered by this time.

Two further variants were planned, the long-range Ta 152R and the Ta 152S trainer but none were produced. A Ta 153 prototype appeared with a Daimler-Benz DB603 engine, however it was significantly different and was shelved so as not to disrupt production.

In the end just over 40 Focke-Wulf Ta 152s were produced.