The AEG C.VIII, an innovative aircraft developed during World War I, was specifically designed for reconnaissance missions.
It was created in two different variations, drawing inspiration from the highly regarded C.IV design.
The first version featured a biplane configuration, while the second version boasted a triplane design.
However, despite the considerable efforts invested in the development of the AEG C.VIII, neither variant managed to surpass the capabilities of its predecessor, the C.IV.
Consequently, the potential for mass production of these aircraft was deemed unworthy.
The limited advancements offered by the C.VIII failed to justify the significant resources and investments required for large-scale manufacturing.
As a result, the production and deployment of the AEG C.VIII during the war remained limited.
Triplane version of C.VIII, no improvement in climb and speed reduced to 165 km/h
Specifications
Crew
2
Length
6.9 m (22 ft 8 in)
Wingspan
9.5 m (31 ft 2 in)
Empty weight
800 kg (1,764 lb)
Gross weight
1,160 kg (2,557 lb)
Powerplant
1 × Mercedes D.III,
6-cylinder water-cooled inline piston engine,
120 kW (160 hp)
Propellers
2 bladed fixed pitch propellers
Performance
Maximum speed
170 km/h (110 mph, 92 kn)
Rate of climb
4.386 m/s (863.4 ft/min)
Power/mass
0.10 kW/kg (0.061 hp/lb).
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.
