Junker ju 88, A-4 & D-1 differences

[thepureness]

I've just seen the new revell ju 88 a-4 kit in 1/32 is now in stock, I held of purchasing the original released in the A-1 version kit as my aim was to build a north Africa based scheme kit, Although the decals provided do offer a Mediterranean based machine, its in a ridiculous style of scheme with those squiggly lines all over the underneath and way beyond my skill levels. My aim was to build something with a more simple paint scheme.

http://www.hannants.co.uk/product/AIMS3208 Aims do a Libya based machine but the version is a D-1, now my understanding is a D-1 is essentially the a-4 airframe, but that's all my based understanding, Wikipedia confirm my thoughts, but if there is any German aircraft gurus out there that could assist me, I'd be extremely grateful. thanks

[Vesa Jussila]

You can try ask your question here: http://www.luftwaffe-experten.org/forums/index.php I know that there are some good gurus there.

[tango98]

Essentially, The Ju 88 D-1 was an A-4 with provision for three cameras to be carried in the rear fuselage aft of the bomb bay. Normal camera fit was for only two though, these 'usually' being installed on the starboard side of the fuselage. Also, the under fuselage 'towel rail' antenna was moved further aft due to the camera installation. As with the A-4, the D-1 could carry the same bombload (but hardly ever) and also the same external fuel tanks and could also be fitted with a petrol fired heater for the camera bay, those aircraft so fitted are easily identified by a small streamlined vent fairing on the top of the rear fuselage located approximately above or just aft of the centre vertical line of the fuselage Balkakreuz.

Although it was unusual for a D-1 in any theatre to carry a 'normal' bomb load such as for the A-4 it was by no means unusual for them to carry four small bombs in either the bomb bay (if not carrying flares for night photography) or on underwing racks for use against 'targets of opportunity'.

Incidentally, for a pretty basic but relatively sound guide to the Ju 88 A & D variants the Squadron/Signal Junkers Ju 88 in Action Part 1 is a handy and inexpensive resource.

HTH

Dave

Edited August 7, 2013 by tango98

[brewerjerry]

Hi

A nice reference here

cheers

Jerry

http://wunderwaffe.narod.ru/Magazine/AirWar/02/Draw/30.jpg

http://wunderwaffe.narod.ru/Magazine/AirWar/02/Draw/24.jpg

http://wunderwaffe.narod.ru/Magazine/AirWar/02/Draw/25.jpg

[tango98]

If you are looking for an interesting/unusual Med camo scheme for your intended project, feel free to PM me as I have several, including photographic references for Med-based D-1s during 1941 - 44.

Cheers

Dave

[popeye]

Dave's answer covers almost everything.

There is only one point to add or correct:

"D" versions were the standard recce variants from 1941/42 onwards and had TWO camera positions (centerline) in the compartement behind the rear bomb bay,

including provision for "Kärcher" heating unit as described.

D-1's were prededed by D-2's only because the later more powerful Jumo 211 with intercooler were not ready for production and service - together with VS-11 props.

I have this info since last year from a reliable and renowned German Junkers historian.

Earlyer recce 88's A-1/F and A-5/F had three camera postitions in the rear bomb bay.

Some short wing A-1/F were modified with the long wings of the A-5.

Rolf

[tango98]

Hi Rolf,

You wrote "and had TWO camera positions"

Yes I was aware that the original provision for three camera installations was changed early on in the production/conversion of the D-1 (due to c of g concerns IIRC) but have no definite information on when this occurred so did not want to confuse the issue.

According to copies of strength return and servicing documents that I have for some D-1s of the (F)./121, 2./123 and 3./33 there are indications that at least four D-1s assigned to these units underwent revisions to the camera bays within three months of being taken on strength.

mfg

Dave

[popeye]

.

Hi Dave.

I'm the first to admit that there must have been quite a lot of mods, repairs and alterations on depot level.

And over the years I have come to the conclusion that very little can be excluded for sure.

Just wanted to pass on that morcel of info.

Discussion & illustration re this can be followed on Flugzeugforum >

http://www.flugzeugforum.de/ju-188-f-3-f-33-hasegawa-1-72-a-62818-3.html

HTH, Rolf

Edited August 9, 2013 by popeye