Since March 1915, the AEG C.I was introduced as a biplane reconnaissance aircraft designed to accommodate two individuals.
Despite its limited production, it played a vital role in aerial surveillance operations.
The AEG C.I was essentially an upgraded version of the AEG B.II, featuring a more powerful engine and improved armament.
The observer, positioned at the rear of the cockpit, was armed with a single 7.92 mm (.312 in) Parabellum or Bergmann machine gun for defensive purposes.
One of the notable enhancements in the AEG C.I was the installation of a stronger Benz engine, significantly boosting its overall performance.
This upgrade enabled the aircraft to reach a maximum speed of 130 km/h (81 mph), enhancing its manoeuvrability and efficiency during reconnaissance missions.
Consequently, the AEG C.I proved to be a valuable asset in providing reliable and swift aerial surveillance capabilities.
However, with technological advancements, the AEG C.I was gradually replaced by the AEG C.II by October 1915, marking a significant progression in reconnaissance aircraft design.
Despite its limited production, the AEG C.I made a substantial impact in the early stages of aerial warfare, illustrating the continuous evolution and innovation in aircraft development throughout World War I.
AEG C.II
Germany commenced production of the AEG C.II, a two-seater biplane reconnaissance aircraft, in restricted numbers from October 1915.
This plane represented an enhanced iteration of the C.I model, featuring improved performance, a revamped cockpit to accommodate the pilot and observer/bombardier, and a new rear mounting for a 7.92 mm (.312 in) Parabellum MG14 machine gun.
Moreover, it possessed the capacity to transport four 10 kg (22 lb) bombs for light attack missions.
AEG C.III
The AEG C.III, a biplane reconnaissance aircraft developed during World War I, featured a unique fuselage design that bridged the gap between its upper and lower wings.
This innovative design was intended to improve the pilot’s visibility and offer the observer a broader field of fire for their 7.92 mm (.312 in) machine gun.
The pilot sat in the rear seat, while the observer was positioned above the upper wing.
Despite high hopes, the C.III did not meet expectations and never entered active service.
Surprisingly, even though it was heavier than its predecessor, the C.II, the C.III managed to achieve a faster maximum speed of 158 km/h (98 mph).
The AEG C.III was a unique two-seat biplane reconnaissance aircraft that emerged during World War I. However, only one prototype of this aircraft was ever built.
What set the C.III apart was its unconventional fuselage design, which filled the gap between the upper and lower wings.
This innovative design aimed to improve the pilot’s visibility and provide the observer with a wider field of fire for their 7.92 mm (.312 in) machine gun.
The pilot occupied the rear seat, while the observer sat above the upper wing.
Despite initial optimism, the C.III did not meet the expected level of success and was never deployed for active service.
Interestingly, despite its increased weight compared to the C.II, the C.III managed to achieve a higher maximum speed of 158 km/h (98 mph).
Specifications
C.III
Crew
2
Length
6.5 m (21 ft 4 in)
Wingspan
12 m (39 ft 4 in)
Wing area
36 m2 (390 sq ft)
Empty weight
687 kg (1,515 lb)
Gross weight
1,237 kg (2,727 lb)
Powerplant
1 × Benz Bz.III 6 cylinder
Water cooled inline piston engine,
112 kW (150 hp)
Performance
Maximum speed
158 km/h (98 mph, 85 kn)
Armament
Guns
1 × 7.92 mm (.312 in) Parabellum MG14
Or
Bergmann MG 15nA machine gun with 550 rounds
Bombs
4 × 10 kg (20 lb) bombs.
Sources AEG Aircraft of WWI-J Herris. German Aircraft of the First World War-P Gray & O Thetford. The Complete Book of Fighters-W Green & W Swanborough.
