Blohm & Voss BV 138, BV 141 and BV 222 Wiking: books

Blohm & Voss BV 138

This book provides a clear and detailed overview of the Blohm & Voss BV 138, a German three-engine flying boat used by the Luftwaffe in World War II. Designed by Blohm & Voss (first known as Hamburger Flugzeugbau), it first flew on 15 July 1937. Its unusual appearance - high wings, twin tail booms, and three engines - earned it the nickname "Flying Clog."

The aircraft was almost 19.9 m long, had a wingspan of about 27 m, and could fly up to 5.000 km. Later versions were adapted for mine-sweeping, equipped with a large degaussing ring to safely clear magnetic mines. The book highlights the BV 138's strong and versatile design.

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Blohm & Voss Bv 222 'Wiking'

This book presents the history of the Blohm & Voss BV 222 "Wiking", the largest operational flying boat of the Second World War. Originally developed in 1937 for Deutsche Lufthansa's planned transatlantic services, the six-engine seaplane was taken over by the Luftwaffe once the first prototype flew on 7 September 1940.

Measuring 37 metres in length with a wingspan of 46 metres, the BV 222 could transport up to 92 passengers or operate as an air ambulance for 72 patients. It was powered by six Bramo 323 radial engines, which were later replaced by diesel units for improved efficiency. With a maximum speed of about 300 km/h and a range exceeding 6.000 kilometres, the aircraft undertook long-distance missions in demanding conditions. Early operations included supply and medical evacuation flights between Norway and Germany.

The book also covers its deployment in North Africa and the Mediterranean, the defensive armament fitted to various versions, and the operational challenges faced by crews. Although only 13 aircraft were built, the BV 222 demonstrated notable robustness and flexibility. This volume highlights the development, capabilities, and wartime service of one of aviation's most distinctive flying boats.

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Blohm and Voss BV 222

This book explores the history of the Blohm & Voss BV 222 "Wiking" flying boat. It features over 100 black-and-white photographs and technical drawings, providing a clear visual and historical record of this unique aircraft.

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Blohm and Voss BV 141 (X Planes of the Reich)

This book presents a clear and detailed history of the Blohm & Voss BV 141, the striking asymmetrical aircraft designed by Richard Vogt during World War II. Developed for the Luftwaffe as a reconnaissance and observation plane, the BV 141 stood out with its unusual layout: a glazed crew nacelle on one side and the engine and tail boom offset to the other.

First flown on 25 February 1938, the BV 141 offered excellent visibility for its three-man crew. Powered by a single BMW 132 radial engine, it reached speeds of about 400 km/h and had a range of around 1.200 km. Despite its strong performance and stable flight, only a small number were built.

The book features many rare and previously unpublished photographs, detailed drawings, and technical schematics, showcasing the bold and innovative design of this unique German aircraft.

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Blohm & Voss Flugzeuge seit 1933 (Typenkompass)

This illustrated guide presents the aircraft produced by Blohm & Voss, a company founded in 1933 as a subsidiary of the well-known shipyard. From the beginning until 1945, the manufacturer became recognised for its unusual and advanced designs, including the twin-boom reconnaissance aircraft BV 141 and the large six-engine flying boat BV 222. Blohm & Voss often moved into new technical territory and contributed not only to aircraft construction but also to innovative developments and project studies.

Following the established structure of the "Typenkompass" series, the book offers a clear overview of every type built by this manufacturer. Each entry includes a photograph, a brief historical description, and key technical data.

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