The Siemens-Schuckert Werks (SSW) D.III was designed as a fast-climbing interceptor and was to make use of the new 11 cylinder Siemens-Halske 160hp counter-rotary engine. This engine featured a propeller and cylinders rotating opposite to the crankcase, allowing a slower propeller speed for the same power and the elimination of torque, among other things. Initial tests of the Sh.III engine in the SSW D.IIb saw a remarkable (for the time) climb of 7000m in 35 minutes, and the decision was made to design a new interceptor around it.
Approximately 41 SSW D.IIIs were delivered to frontline units between April and May, 1918. Most aircraft were supplied to Jagdgeschwader II, whose pilots were enthusiastic about the new aircraft's handling and rate of climb. however after 7 to 10 hours the Siemens-Halske engines began having problems with overheating and piston seizures. The airplanes were returned to the factory for upgrading. They were retrofitted with modified engines, cutaway cowlings, shorter wings, new design ailerons and rudder.
They were returned to service in late July 1918 along with a further 30 newly manufactured D.IIIs incorporating the design changes. They were issued to home defense Kest Squadrons this time, because their fast climb capability made them ideal to intercept incoming Allied high altitude bombing raids.
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The model, textures. panel and air files are by Captain Kurt. The pilot figures were developed from Wolfi's freeware Japanese pilot .fsc source file. The prop spinning texture is by Kelticheart.
Gauges are by Martin Klein with texture change outs by Captain Kurt
Approximately 41 SSW D.IIIs were delivered to frontline units between April and May, 1918. Most aircraft were supplied to Jagdgeschwader II, whose pilots were enthusiastic about the new aircraft's handling and rate of climb. however after 7 to 10 hours the Siemens-Halske engines began having problems with overheating and piston seizures. The airplanes were returned to the factory for upgrading. They were retrofitted with modified engines, cutaway cowlings, shorter wings, new design ailerons and rudder.
They were returned to service in late July 1918 along with a further 30 newly manufactured D.IIIs incorporating the design changes. They were issued to home defense Kest Squadrons this time, because their fast climb capability made them ideal to intercept incoming Allied high altitude bombing raids.
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The model, textures. panel and air files are by Captain Kurt. The pilot figures were developed from Wolfi's freeware Japanese pilot .fsc source file. The prop spinning texture is by Kelticheart.
Gauges are by Martin Klein with texture change outs by Captain Kurt
