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The world became aware of the German Messerschmitt Bf. 109 during the Battle of Britain, and to this day it is Germany's best known aircraft. Throughout World War II, new models were developed; the Bf. 109G-6 "Gustav" (the version seen at the Museum) was among the best.
Display Status
Display Status
This object is not on display at the National Air and Space Museum. It is either on loan or in storage.
Messerschmitt Bf. 109
Messerschmitt Bf. 109
Tapered Wing Tip
Tapered Wing Tip
The Messerschmitt Bf. 109’s first public demonstration took place at the 1936 Olympic Games held in Berlin, but the airplane's first real impact on the aviation world came during the international flying meet held in Zurich in the summer of 1937. Five Bf 109s took part and demonstrated outstanding climbing, diving, and maneuverability, along with exceptional speed.
To learn more about the year Aeronautics was an Olympic event, check out this article.
The Messerschmitt Bf 109 V1 (r/n D-IABI, Werke-Nr.758, the prototype for the entire Bf 109 series of aircraft) on the ground, chocks in place, engine running; Germany, September 16, 1936.
Compare and Contrast
Compare and Contrast
Look closely at the German WWII fighter.
Are there comparisons you can make with the P-1 Mustang, America's WWII fighter?
For more on the Messerschmitt Bf 109 , look at our page here.
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