23 January 2020
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Secret Projects of the Luftwaffe
A new book from Mortons Books, Secret Projects Of The Luftwaffe: Blohm & Voss Bv 155, reveals a high altitude variation of the fearsome Bf 109.
The story of the Messerschmitt Bf 109's most radical development, the Blohm & Voss BV 155, began in early 1942 as German planners considered the likelihood of America operating high-altitude bombers over occupied Europe. It was decided that a re-engined Bf 109 with extended wings, a wide-track undercarriage and a pressure cabin could meet this threat and the type was designated Me 155. A complex and challenging period of development followed, with Messerschmitt's high-altitude fighter going through numerous iterations before manpower shortages and the urgent need to prepare the Me 262 jet fighter for series production compelled the company to seek outside help.
Hamburg-based Blohm & Voss stepped in and the project became the BV 155. Despite a steep technological learning curve, official indifference and a fraught relationship with Messerschmitt, Blohm & Voss succeeded in building and flying a prototype just over a year after taking on the project. Using original wartime documents, author Dan Sharp explains and explores the history of this fascinating and unusual branch of the Bf 109 fighter family.
Secret Projects of the Luftwaffe: Blohm & Voss BV 155, the 116-page paperback book, is available to order for just £12.99 from www.mortonsbooks.com.
IT'S HERE! A Guide to Collecting German Militaria is the new bookazine from the publisher of The Armourer and is now on sale. This 132 page, perfect bound magazine is your guide to collecting Imperial and Third Reich militaria, from medals and cuff titles, to uniforms, weapons, personal gear and civic awards. We cover rare awards, how to spot fakes and include current prices. There's limited stock of the print version on our website so if they've sold out either head for your local branch of WH Smith, as the main stockist, or buy a digital version.
Don't forget, 100 Years of the RAF, a commemorative bookazine celebrating 100 years since the formation of the RAF, is now on sale. Order your copy by clicking on 100 RAF.
Catch up on militaria news, order a back issue of The Armourer, or pick up the latest issue, in either print or digital format. Like what you see? Why not take out a subscription, save money and have it delivered to your door.