Messerschmitt Me 310
| Company type | Prototype aircraft |
|---|---|
| Industry | Aerospace |
| Founded | 1943 |
| Headquarters | Germany |
| Products | Heavy fighter aircraft prototype |
The Messerschmitt Me 310 was a German heavy fighter prototype developed during World War II. This initiative aimed to address the aerodynamic shortcomings of the earlier Me 210 model.
Design and development
The planned weaponry matched that of the Me 210 A-1 variant, consisting of two 20 mm MG 151/20 cannons, two 7.92 mm (.312 in) MG 17 machine guns, along with a pair of remotely operated, rear-facing 13 mm (.51 in) MG 131 machine guns.
Only one unit was constructed by modifying the Me 210 V13 airframe (registration GI+SQ). This version featured a pressurized cockpit and was equipped with two Daimler-Benz DB 603A inline engines, each delivering 1,380 kW (1,850 hp). The Me 310 took to the skies for its maiden flight on 11 September 1943. Despite this, the program was terminated later that year due to negligible aerodynamic advancements over the Me 210. Subsequently, the Me 410 prototype demonstrated sufficient aerodynamic enhancements to warrant production.
Specifications (Me 310)
Template:Aircraft specifications/switch