Messerschmitt Me 509
| Company type | Proposed military aircraft |
|---|---|
| Industry | Aerospace |
| Headquarters | Germany |
| Products | Fighter aircraft (proposed) |
The Messerschmitt Me 509 was a proposed all-metal fighter developed in Germany during World War II.
Development
Limited documentation exists regarding this initiative. The design drew heavily from the Me 309, featuring an engine positioned behind a pressurized cockpit, resembling the configuration used in the American Bell P-39 Airacobra.
Equipped with a Daimler-Benz DB 605B engine powering a three-blade propeller, its intended armament included two 13 mm (.51 in) MG 131 machine guns alongside two 20 mm MG 151/20 cannon. The Me 309's tricycle landing gear was retained and functioned more effectively on the Me 509 due to reduced load on the nosewheel—the Me 309 had experienced nosegear failure during testing. The smaller nose design was anticipated to enhance pilot visibility. This project was ultimately discontinued alongside the Me 309,[1] although Japan developed a comparable aircraft, the Yokosuka R2Y Keiun, which faced issues with engine overheating.[2]
Specifications (projected)
See also
References
External links
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