Messerschmitt Bf 109G-10 ‘Late Gustavʼ

The Messerschmitt Bf 109 was a German fighter aircraft designed in the mid-1930s and it represented the first modern fighter of the era. Originally conceived as an interceptor, later models were developed to fulfil various roles, such as bomber escort, fighter-bomber, day and night fighter, ground-attack or reconnaissance. Various armament modifications evolved in service, using pre-packaged or field kits. The aircraft was of an all-metal monocoque construction, featuring an enclosed canopy and a retractable landing gear.
The G-series aircraft were introduced in mid-1942. The initial variants differed only in minor details from its predecessor, the Bf 109F, most notably in the more powerful engine. Except some early aeroplanes, the bulk of Bf 109G-10s were fitted with DB 605D engines and featured the Erla clear-view canopy, large main wheels with corresponding large oblong wing bulges, deeper oil cooler under the nose and tall tail fin.
The first Bf 109G-10s appeared in service in November 1944 and the following variants were produced: G-10 light fighter (with two MG 131 guns and a single MG 151/20 gun in the nose), G-10/R2 recce fighter, G-10/R6 bad-weather fighter and G-10/U4 fighter (equipped with an engine-mounted MK 108 cannon). In total, about 2,600 aircraft were produced by Erla, Messerschmitt, WNF and Diana factories.
The Bf 109 was the most produced fighter aircraft in the aviation history, and besides the German Luftwaffe it served in many other air forces and gallantly fought in all aerial combats of WWII.