Messerschmitt Bf 109
Specs, top speed, range and facts
The Messerschmitt Bf 109 is a world War II fighter built by Messerschmitt in Germany. It first flew in 1935 and entered service in 1937. A small, light fighter built around the most powerful engine available.
- Top speed640 km/h (398 mph)
- Range850 km (528 miles)
- First flight1935
- Wingspan9.9 m (33 ft)
Messerschmitt Bf 109 specs
| Top speed | 640 km/h (398 mph)Bf 109G. Varies widely by version. |
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| Range | 850 km (528 miles) |
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| Service ceiling | 12,000 m (39,370 ft) |
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| Length | 9 m (30 ft) |
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| Wingspan | 9.9 m (33 ft) |
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| Height | 2.6 m (9 ft) |
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| Max takeoff weight | 3.15 t (6,944 lb) |
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| Crew and capacity | 1 crew |
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| Engines | 1 × Daimler-Benz DB 605 V12 |
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| First flight | 1935 |
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| Entered service | 1937 |
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| Built by | Messerschmitt (Germany) |
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Messerschmitt Bf 109 facts
- About 34,000 were built, more than any other fighter plane in history.
- Its narrow main wheels made it tricky to take off and land.
Quick quiz
When did the Messerschmitt Bf 109 first fly?
In 1935.
Who built the Messerschmitt Bf 109?
Messerschmitt, in Germany.
How fast can the Messerschmitt Bf 109 fly?
Its top speed is 640 km/h (398 mph).
How far can the Messerschmitt Bf 109 fly?
About 850 km (528 miles).
Photos, a true-scale silhouette, quizzes, flashcards, the Size Lab and the Sky Run game.
Messerschmitt Bf 109 vs similar aircraft
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