Messerschmitt Me 321 Gigant

During the preparation for a possible invasion on Britain during World War II (called Operation Sealion), the Oberkommando des Heeres (OKH) required a cargo glider that would carry about 130 equipped soldiers because it was not possible to ship all the important weapons and goods by naval vessels. Cargo gliders were also needed to secure bridgeheads in a short time. The capture of Fort Eben-Emael was, for the German army leaders, the proof that gliders are crucial for these scenarios.

However, the Me 321 glider was ultimately so heavy that she needed to be towed by three Messerschmitt Me 110 fighters, which was a waste of much-needed combat aircraft.

The German web site WaffenHQ.de serves pictures and a lengthy description of the Me 321 glider.

Specifications

Function: Transport Glider
First Flight: March 7, 1941
Service Delivery: June 1941

Final Delivery: April 1942

Dimensions:
Wing span: 55m (180'5.5")
Length: 28.15m (92'4.25")
Height: 10.15m (33'3.5")
Weights:
Empty: 12,400kg (27,432lbs)
Maximum: 34,400kg (75,852lbs)
Performance:
Maximum Speed: 160km/h (99 mph) on tow
Initial climb: 492ft/min (150m/min) (towed with three Me 110 airplanes)
Weapons:
4 MG 15 machine guns

see also

There was also a motorized Version built, the Me 323 "Gigant" with six 895 kW engines. This resulted in the biggest land-based cargo airplane of the Second World War.