What if the He-112 was chosen, despite it being heavier and slower than the Bf-109? It was popular among many of the leaders of the Luftwaffe, before the weight problem was realized.
What if the He-112 was chosen, despite it being heavier and slower than the Bf-109? It was popular among many of the leaders of the Luftwaffe, before the weight problem was realized.
It wasn't that bad, and honestly, the He112 was the better dogfighter and general performer, even with the Kestrel engine. Of course, since the Germans wouldn't loose as many experienced pilots in conversion thanks to the wider track, they'd be able to better operate the aircraft as well. Of course, any issues it had could easily be fixed by improving the wing and installing the DB601.
The wider track landing gear might save some non combat fatalities and attrition of aircraft. Would it be enough to make a difference? Even if the plane isn't as good as a 109 could training and tactics make them just as effective?
Wasn't it faster than the 109? The He-112 with a 700hp Jumo engine could reach 317mph, while a similarly powered Me 109 only had a top speed of 292mph IIRC. And the He 112 had a longer range, which would have helped a lot in the Battle of Britain.
Range wouldn't help that much... too much pilot fatigue and targets farther north involve very lengthy penetrations of hostile airspace, which given British radar and ground control would lead to early interceptions and disruption anyway... an ME-109 could fight for 10 minutes at full throttle over london... that was plenty; any more than that and the fellow would have a high chance of flaking out from exhaustion