The German single-seat fighter sesquiplane known as the Albatros D.XI took its maiden flight in February 1918.
This particular aircraft marked a significant milestone for Albatros fighters as it was the first to be equipped with a rotary engine.
The 120 kW (160 hp) Siemens-Halske Sh.III engine was a notable feature of the D.XI, setting it apart from its predecessors.
In terms of design and development, the Albatros D.XI showcased innovative wing construction.
The unequal spans of the wings, with the upper planes having a greater span than the lower ones, were braced by I-struts with an aerofoil cross-section.
The addition of twinned diagonal struts from the base of the wings to the fuselage provided extra rigidity, a departure from the traditional wire bracing seen in previous models.
Armed with twin 7.92 mm (.312 in) Spandau LMG 08/15 machine guns, the Albatros D.XI was well-equipped for combat.
Despite the promising features of the aircraft, only two prototypes were ever constructed.
The D.XI did not progress to production, but its unique design elements and use of a rotary engine left a lasting impact on the evolution of Albatros fighters.
Sources German & Austro-Hungarian aircraft manufacturers 1908–1918-T C Treadwell. German Aircraft of the First World War-Peter Gray & Owen Thetford. Flugzeug Publications, Die Deutsche Luftwaffe 1914 – Heute.
