76 Junkers Ju87A & B

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Publisher: Profile Publications England
Cover: Soft
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Synopsis: The Junkers Ju87 Stuka represents one of the most recognizable and psychologically devastating weapons of early World War II, embodying the concept of precision dive-bombing that became synonymous with Blitzkrieg tactics. This detailed profile examines the development of both the Ju87A and improved Ju87B variants, tracing the aircraft's evolution from Hermann Pohlmann's design philosophy emphasizing accuracy over speed in ground attack operations. The book explores the revolutionary concept of near-vertical dive attacks, analyzing the technical innovations required including automatic dive brakes, specialized bomb release mechanisms, and the infamous Jericho-Trompete (Jericho Trumpet) sirens that created the distinctive wailing sound during attacks. Technical specifications reveal the Ju87B's capabilities: powered by a Junkers Jumo 211Da engine producing 1,400 horsepower, achieving maximum speed of 238 mph at 13,410 feet, with exceptional accuracy in dive attacks from altitudes up to 15,000 feet. The profile details the aircraft's distinctive inverted gull-wing design, fixed landing gear configuration, and robust construction necessary to withstand the stresses of repeated dive-bombing attacks. Armament analysis covers the standard bomb load of one 1,100-pound bomb under the fuselage plus four 110-pound bombs under the wings, along with defensive armament of two forward-firing 7.92mm MG 17 machine guns and one flexible rear-mounted MG 15. Operational history chronicles the Stuka's devastating effectiveness during the early war period, beginning with combat trials during the Spanish Civil War where the aircraft's psychological impact was first recognized. The book examines major campaigns including the invasions of Poland, Norway, France, and the Low Countries, where Stuka units achieved unprecedented accuracy rates and tactical success in supporting armored spearheads. Detailed combat accounts cover the Battle of Britain, where the Ju87's vulnerabilities against modern fighters became apparent, leading to heavy losses and tactical reassessment. The profile analyzes the aircraft's continued success on the Eastern Front, where reduced fighter opposition allowed Stukas to devastate Soviet ground forces during the initial phases of Operation Barbarossa. Notable pilots featured include Hans-Ulrich Rudel, history's most successful ground-attack pilot, whose achievements included the destruction of over 500 tanks and the sinking of the Soviet battleship Marat. The book covers various specialized variants including tropical versions for North African operations, ski-equipped models for winter warfare, and anti-tank variants mounting 37mm cannons. Production details reveal that over 5,700 Ju87s were manufactured, making it one of Germany's most produced ground-attack aircraft, serving from 1937 until war's end in increasingly desperate defensive operations.

76 Junkers Ju87A & B, is one of the many primary source materials in the Army Air Corps Museum collection.