Heinkel
He 51C-2
The Heinkel He 51C‑2 was the final production version of Germany’s first indigenous single‑seat biplane fighter, entering service in 1935. Developed by the Heinkel works under the direction of Ernst Heinkel, the aircraft evolved from the earlier He 49 prototype and the He 51A/B models that had been used during the early years of the Spanish Civil War. Powered by an 830 hp (620 kW) BMW VI 7.3‑Z 12‑cylinder V‑engine, the C‑2 could reach 330 km/h (205 mph) and climb to 5,000 m in 7.5 minutes. Its armament comprised two 7.92 mm MG 17 machine guns mounted in the upper wing, and optional under‑wing racks for small bombs or additional fuel tanks. Structural refinements such as a revised forward fuselage, strengthened landing gear and an enlarged rudder improved handling and survivability.
Although quickly outclassed by modern monoplane fighters such as the Messerschmitt Bf 109, the He 51C‑2 played a pivotal role in establishing the Luftwaffe’s tactical doctrines, providing the first combat experience for many ace pilots. The type also demonstrated the limits of biplane design, influencing the rapid shift toward all‑metal, low‑drag monoplanes that defined World War II aerial warfare.
Although quickly outclassed by modern monoplane fighters such as the Messerschmitt Bf 109, the He 51C‑2 played a pivotal role in establishing the Luftwaffe’s tactical doctrines, providing the first combat experience for many ace pilots. The type also demonstrated the limits of biplane design, influencing the rapid shift toward all‑metal, low‑drag monoplanes that defined World War II aerial warfare.
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Classification
Production & History
- Units Produced
- 21
Design & Classification
- Primary Use
- Manufacturer
- Heinkel
- Wikidata ID
- Q18560363