Junkers D.I

J 7 and J 9 (D.I)
Junkers D.I survivor at Musée de l'Air et de l'Espace
Role Fighter
National origin Germany
Manufacturer Junkers
Designer Hugo Junkers
First flight 17 September 1917
Introduction 1918
Status retired
Primary user Imperial German Navy
Produced 1918
Number built 41


The Junkers D.I (factory designation J 9) was a monoplane fighter aircraft produced in Germany late in World War I, significant for becoming the first all-metal fighter to enter service. The prototype, a private venture by Junkers designated the J 7, first flew on 17 September 1917,[1] going through nearly a half-dozen detail changes in its design during its tests. When it was demonstrated to the Idflieg early the following year it proved impressive enough to result in an order for three additional aircraft for trials. However, the changes made by Junkers were significant enough for the firm to redesignate the next example the J 9, which was supplied to the Idflieg instead of the three J 7s ordered.

Lengthened-fuselage and extended wingspan Junkers D.I (J.9/II) undergoing evaluation

During tests, the J 9 lacked the maneuverability necessary for a front-line fighter, but was judged fit for a naval fighter, and a batch of 12 was ordered. These were supplied to a naval unit by September 1918, which then redeployed to the Eastern Front after the Armistice.

Variants

Survivors

One example survives and is on display in the Musée de l'Air et de l'Espace, at the Paris–Le Bourget Airport, 11km north of Paris, France. Several replicas have been built, including one on display at the Luftwaffenmuseum Berlin-Gatow.

Specifications

Data from Holmes, 2005. p 32

General characteristics

Performance

Armament

See also

Related development
Aircraft of comparable role, configuration and era

References

Citations

  1. Grosz and Terry 1984, p.67.
  2. Grosz, 1992, p.35
  3. 1 2 Kay, 2004, p.28

Bibliography

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