Heinkel
He 51C
The Heinkel He 51C was the final production version of Germany’s first dedicated fighter‑bomber, introduced in the early 1930s. Developed from the original He 51A prototype, the C model entered service with the Luftwaffe in 1935 and saw extensive action in the Spanish Civil War, where it proved both a nimble dogfighter and a capable ground‑attack platform. Powered by a 750 hp (560 kW) Siemens‑Junkers Sh 22B radial engine, the He 51C could reach 370 km/h (230 mph) at sea level and had a range of roughly 830 km (515 mi). Its biplane configuration featured equal‑span wings with a single‑bay strut arrangement, giving excellent maneuverability at low speeds and a sturdy structure for harsh field conditions. Armament consisted of two 7.92 mm MG 17 machine guns mounted on the upper wing, and the aircraft could carry up to 200 kg (440 lb) of bombs or small rockets under the wings.
Although quickly outclassed by monoplane fighters such as the Messerschmitt Bf 109, the He 51C remained in service as a trainer and close‑support aircraft throughout World War II. Its operational record demonstrated the transitional role of biplane designs in the move toward modern, high‑speed aviation and highlighted Heinkel’s early contributions to German aeronautical engineering.
Although quickly outclassed by monoplane fighters such as the Messerschmitt Bf 109, the He 51C remained in service as a trainer and close‑support aircraft throughout World War II. Its operational record demonstrated the transitional role of biplane designs in the move toward modern, high‑speed aviation and highlighted Heinkel’s early contributions to German aeronautical engineering.
No images available
Classification
Production & History
- Units Produced
- 100
Design & Classification
- Primary Use
- Manufacturer
- Heinkel
- Wikidata ID
- Q18560358