ELF Model 72004 Albatros Dr.I

In July 1916, the Allied aviation gained air superiority due to the introduction of better fighters (Nieuport planes) into combat. The Germans immediately began to create combat squadrons and searched for a fighter capable of withstanding French planes. In the near future - already in August this year - such a fighter appeared. It was Albatros DI. It was constructed by three engineers: Thelen, Schuber and Gnaeding. The plane had a half-shell structure with a working plywood covering, which was an extremely innovative solution. As it turned out, it was also the best aerodynamically developed plane in 1916. The Mercedes d.III (or BZ.III) in-line engine was almost completely enclosed except for the cylinder heads that protruded beyond the fuselage. The plane was flown by Oswald Boelcke himself, who rated the machine very highly. On September 5, 1916, the plane entered service and immediately improved the situation at the front. However, his career was short, because after producing only 50 copies, the plane was replaced by the newer Albatros D.II model. Technical data: Top speed: 175 km / h; climb speed 2.8 m / s, maximum ceiling 3000 m, armament: two 7.92 mm iMG08 machine guns.