Halberstadt B types

The Halberstadt B‑type series, produced by the German firm Halberstadt Flugzeugwerke during the early years of the First World War, represented the Imperial German Army’s first batch of purpose‑built two‑seat unarmed reconnaissance aircraft. Introduced in 1914, the B.I and its improved successor, the B.II, were conventional staggered‑wing biplanes of mixed wood and fabric construction with tandem open cockpits for pilot and observer. Power came from a 120 hp Mercedes D.II inline engine driving a two‑bladed propeller, giving a top speed of roughly 130 km/h and a service ceiling near 3 500 m. Their simple structure, reliable handling and relatively long endurance made them valuable for artillery spotting, photographic mapping, and pilot training. Although quickly outclassed by armed C‑type aircraft, the B‑types continued in secondary roles throughout 1915‑1916, providing a steady supply of experienced aircrew for the front. Their operational history illustrated the rapid evolution of aerial warfare, and the design lessons learned – such as improved engine cooling and stronger wing bracing – directly influenced later Halberstadt C‑type fighters. In aviation history, the Halberstadt B series marks a transitional step from experimental flight to systematic military air reconnaissance.