The Junkers Ju 87, commonly known as the Stuka (from "Sturzkampfflugzeug," meaning dive bomber), was a German dive bomber and ground-attack aircraft used during World War II. Designed by Hermann Pohlmann, the Ju 87 first flew in 1935 and became one of the most recognizable and feared aircraft of the war due to its distinctive gull wings, fixed undercarriage, and infamous sirens known as "Jericho Trumpets," which created a terrifying scream during a dive attack.
Key Features of the Junkers Ju 87:
Design and Structure: The Ju 87 featured inverted gull wings, a fixed spatted undercarriage, and a crew of two (pilot and rear gunner/radio operator). Its robust structure allowed it to withstand the stress of steep dive bombing.
Jericho Trumpets: The Ju 87 was famous for its psychological warfare element, the "Jericho Trumpets," which were sirens mounted on the landing gear to produce a wailing noise during a dive. This sound was intended to instill fear and panic among enemy troops.
Operational Use: The Stuka saw extensive service in the early years of World War II, including the invasion of Poland, the Battle of France, and the early stages of the Eastern Front. However, it became vulnerable to more advanced enemy fighters and anti-aircraft defenses as the war progressed.
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