AEG G

The AEG G series, built by the German electrical‑engine firm AEG, was introduced during the First World War as a twin‑engine biplane bomber. Development began in early 1915, and the first production model, the G.I, flew in late 1915. It featured two 120‑horsepower Mercedes D.II inline engines mounted in nacelles on the lower wing, a wooden frame covered with fabric, and a crew of two to three. Subsequent variants—G.II, G.III and G.IV—refined the design with more powerful 150‑hp Benz Bz.IIIa or 220‑hp Benz Bz.IV engines, increased wing span, and reinforced undercarriage for heavier bomb loads. The most successful version, the G.III, could carry up to 400 kg of ordnance, achieve a top speed of roughly 140 km/h, and operate at altitudes near 3,500 m, making it suitable for strategic night raids over the Western Front. The AEG G series contributed to the evolution of multi‑engine military aviation by demonstrating the practicality of coordinated twin‑engine flight, influencing later German bombers such as the Gotha and the massive Zeppelin‑Staaken models. Its service record, though eclipsed by larger aircraft, established AEG as a key player in early bomber development and highlighted the shift from single‑engine reconnaissance planes to purpose‑built heavy bombers.