The Focke-Wulf Fw 190, commonly referred to as Würger (Shrike), is a German fighter aircraft featuring a single seat and a single engine.
It was designed by Kurt Tank at Focke-Wulf during the late 1930s and saw extensive use throughout World War II.
In conjunction with its famous counterpart, the Messerschmitt Bf 109, the Fw 190 served as a fundamental component of the Jagdwaffe (Fighter Force) within the Luftwaffe.
The aircraft was primarily powered by the twin-row BMW 801 radial engine, which equipped most operational variants, granting the Fw 190 the capability to carry heavier payloads compared to the Bf 109.
This versatility allowed it to function effectively as a day fighter, fighter-bomber, ground-attack aircraft, and, to a lesser extent, as a night fighter.
The Fw 190A commenced operational flights over France in August 1941 and rapidly demonstrated its superiority in all aspects except for turn radius when compared to the Spitfire Mk. V, which was the primary front-line fighter of the Royal Air Force (RAF), especially at low and medium altitudes.
The 190 retained its dominance over Allied fighters until the arrival of the enhanced Spitfire Mk. IX.
In November and December of 1942, the Fw 190 made its debut in air combat on the Eastern Front, achieving considerable success within fighter wings and specialized ground attack units (Schlachtgeschwader – Battle Wings or Strike Wings) starting from October 1943.
The performance of the Fw 190A series diminished at elevated altitudes, typically around 6,000 m (20,000 ft) and higher, which compromised its role as a high-altitude interceptor.
Since the inception of the Fw 190, there had been continuous attempts to rectify this issue, including the introduction of a turbo supercharged BMW 801 in the B model, the significantly elongated C model which also aimed to turbo-charge its selected Daimler-Benz DB 603 inverted V12 engine, and the similarly extended D model featuring the Junkers Jumo 213.
However, complications with the turbocharger installations on the -B and -C variants resulted in only the D model being operational by September 1944.
These advancements for high-altitude performance ultimately culminated in the development of the Focke-Wulf Ta 152, which achieved remarkable speeds at medium to high altitudes, reaching 755 km/h (408 kn; 469 mph) at 13,500 m (44,300 ft).
Although these ‘long nose’ variants of the 190 and the Ta 152 derivative provided the Germans with a competitive edge against their Allied counterparts, they were introduced too late to influence the war’s outcome.
The Fw 190 was favoured by its pilots.
Several of the Luftwaffe’s most accomplished fighter aces achieved numerous kills while piloting it, including Otto Kittel, Walter Nowotny, and Erich Rudorffer.
In the view of German pilots who operated both aircraft, the Fw 190 possessed greater fire-power than the Bf 109 and exhibited superior manoeuvrability at low to medium altitudes.
It was considered one of the finest fighter aircraft of World War II.
The Fw 190 was involved in every significant combat front where the Luftwaffe was active after 1941, achieving success across various roles.
It first engaged in combat on the Western Front in August 1941, demonstrating its superiority over the Mk V Spitfire.
The primary advantage of the Spitfire over both the Fw 190 and the Bf 109 was its superior turning radius.
However, the Fw 190 excelled beyond the Spitfire Mk. V in several key performance metrics, including roll rate, speed, acceleration, and dive capabilities.
The introduction of the Fw 190 to the Jagdwaffe enabled the Germans to repel RAF assaults and maintain local air superiority over German territory until the summer of 1942, when the enhanced Spitfire Mk. IX was launched.
In June 1942, Oberleutnant Armin Faber of JG 2 successfully landed his Fw 190 A-3 at a British airfield, which permitted the RAF to evaluate the Mk. IX against the 190 and develop strategies to counter it.
First built prototypes (BMW 139)
Fw 190 V1 (civil registration D-OPZE)
Powered by a 1,550 PS (1,530 hp; 1,140 kW) BMW 139 14-cylinder two-row radial engine.
D-OPZE first flew on 1 June 1939.
Fw 190 V2
Designated with the Stammkennzeichen alphabetic ID code of FL+OZ (later RM+CB) the V2 first flew on October 31, 1939, and was equipped from the outset with the new spinner and cooling fan.
It was armed with one Rheinmetall-Borsig 7.92 mm (0.312 in) MG 17 machine gun and one 13 mm (0.51 in) synchronised MG 131 machine gun in each wing root.
Later built prototypes (BMW 801)
Fw 190 V5
The Fw 190 V5 was equipped with the formidable BMW 801—a two-row, 14-cylinder radial engine offering significantly greater power than its predecessors.
One of its most innovative features was the Kommandogerät (“command-device”), an advanced engine management system developed by BMW.
Acting as an electro-mechanical computer, it automated critical engine functions such as fuel mixture, propeller pitch for its constant-speed propeller, boost pressure, and magneto timing.
Additionally, BMW designed the forward cowling to incorporate an integrated oil cooling system, streamlining performance and maintenance.
Fw 190 V5k
Designated “kleine Fläche” (small surface), the Fw 190 V5k was the early prototype fitted with the original, smaller wingspan.
It first took to the air in early spring 1940, representing a major step forward in the development of the Fw 190 series.
However, extensive modifications—including the installation of the more powerful BMW 801 engine—resulted in a significant weight increase of approximately 635 kg (1,400 lb).
This led to a marked rise in wing loading, adversely affecting the aircraft’s handling characteristics.
In response, engineers began developing a redesigned wing with increased surface area to restore balance and improve performance.
Fw 190 V5g
Nicknamed “große Fläche” (large surface), the Fw 190 V5g was a reconfigured version of the V5 prototype, following a ground vehicle collision in August 1940 that necessitated major repairs.
During this downtime, engineers redesigned the wing structure, opting for a broader planform with reduced taper and extended leading and trailing edges.
This modification increased the wing area to 18.30 m² (197.0 sq ft) and expanded the wingspan to 10.506 m (34 ft 5.6 in).
While the V5g exhibited a minor reduction in top speed—approximately 10 km/h (6.2 mph) slower compared to its smaller-wing predecessor—it delivered superior manoeuvrability and a notably improved rate of climb.
The success of this redesign led to its adoption as the standard wing configuration for all major production variants of the Fw 190.
Fw 190A
Fw 190 A-0
The Fw 190 A-0 marked the pre-production series of the famed fighter, officially ordered in November 1940 with a total of 28 units completed.
Due to the timing of construction, the first nine aircraft were built prior to the approval of the redesigned wing, and thus retained the smaller wing configuration used in earlier prototypes.
Each aircraft was equipped with a formidable armament of six 7.92 mm (0.312 in) MG 17 machine guns.
This configuration included
Four synchronised MG 17s: two mounted in the forward fuselage, and one positioned in each wing root
Two free-firing MG 17s
installed outboard of the propeller disc in each wing
This balanced firepower and evolutionary airframe laid the groundwork for the operational Fw 190 A-series.
Fw 190 A-1
The Fw 190 A-1, the first fully operational variant of the Fw 190 series, entered production in June 1941.
It was powered by the robust BMW 801 C-1 radial engine, delivering 1,560 PS (1,539 hp; 1,147 kW) during take-off, marking a significant step forward in German fighter performance.
Its armament configuration was both balanced and formidable:
Four synchronised 7.92 mm (0.312 in) MG 17 machine guns: two mounted in the forward fuselage and one positioned in each wing root, all capable of firing through the propeller arc
Two 20 mm MG FF/M cannons: mounted outboard in each wing for additional firepower
This combination of power and armament made the A-1 a strong foundation for subsequent Fw 190 variants in Luftwaffe service.
Fw 190 A-2
Introduced in October 1941, the Fw 190 A-2 marked the next step in the evolution of the Fw 190 series.
It was powered by the upgraded BMW 801 C-2 radial engine, offering improved reliability and performance over its predecessor.
One of the most notable changes in this variant was a significant enhancement in wing-mounted weaponry
The two wing root-mounted 7.92 mm (0.312 in) MG 17 machine guns used in earlier models were replaced by a pair of 20 mm MG 151/20E cannons, dramatically increasing firepower and combat effectiveness.
This rearmament reflected the Luftwaffe’s push to equip frontline fighters with heavier armament capable of countering increasingly robust Allied aircraft.
Fw 190 A-3
The Fw 190 A-3 featured the improved BMW 801 D-2 radial engine, which delivered up to 1,700 PS (1,700 hp; 1,300 kW) at takeoff—enhancing overall flight performance.
It retained the same weapon configuration as the A-2 variant, ensuring consistency in firepower while benefiting from increased engine output.
Fw 190 A-3/U1 (Umrüst-Bausatz 1)
This conversion, based on W.Nr 130270, was the first Fw 190 to incorporate an extended engine mount, lengthened by 15 cm (5.9 in).
This modification was later standardised in the A-5 production series, improving aircraft balance and aerodynamics.
Fw 190 A-3/U2
Prototype W.Nr 130386 was equipped with under wing RZ 65 rocket launchers, each wing carrying three 73 mm (2.9 in) rockets.
A limited subset known as the U7 configuration was also trailed as lightweight high-altitude interceptors, armed solely with two 20 mm MG 151 cannons to reduce weight.
Fw 190 A-3/U3 (Jagdbomber Variant)
The U3 marked the first Jabo (fighter-bomber) version, featuring an ETC-501 centre-line rack that supported either
A bomb load of up to 500 kg (1,100 lb),
or
A 300 L (79 US gal) drop tank, when fitted with horizontal stabilising bars
This variant maintained two 7.92 mm MG 17s in the fuselage and two 20 mm MG 151 cannons inboard in the wings, with the outer MG FF cannons removed for weight optimisation.
Fw 190 A-3/U4 (Reconnaissance Variant)
Configured for aerial reconnaissance, the U4 was fitted with
Two RB 12.5 cameras in the rear fuselage
Either an EK 16 gun camera or Robot II miniature camera in the port wing root
Armament mirrored the U3’s configuration, and the aircraft typically carried the standardised 300 L drop tank via the ETC-501 rack.
Fw 190 A-3a (Export Version)
Designated “a = ausländisch” (_foreign_), the A-3a represented a diplomatic export variant delivered to Turkey between October 1942 and March 1943.
A total of 72 aircraft were supplied as part of efforts to maintain favourable relations with the Axis bloc.
Fw 190 A-4
Launched in July 1942, the Fw 190 A-4 retained the BMW 801 D-2 engine and core armament configuration from the preceding A-3 model, offering continuity in firepower and mechanical performance while serving as a flexible base for variant development.
Fw 190 A-4/R6 (Rüstsatz 6)
Some units were equipped with under wing Werfer-Granate 21 (BR 21) rocket mortars, earning the designation Fw 190 A-4/R6.
These additions enhanced ground-attack capability and offered support in bomber interception roles.
Fw 190 A-4/U1
The U1 variant incorporated an ETC 501 bomb rack beneath the fuselage.
To compensate for the added payload capacity, all armament was removed except the MG 151 cannon, streamlining the aircraft for lighter attack missions.
Fw 190 A-4/U3
Structurally similar to the U1, the U3 variant served as the prototype for the Fw 190 F-1, marking an important evolutionary step toward a dedicated assault fighter configuration.
Fw 190 A-4/U4 (Reconnaissance Variant)
Configured for aerial reconnaissance, the U4 featured:
Two Rb 12.4 cameras installed in the rear fuselage
Either an EK 16 gun camera or Robot II miniature camera positioned in the port wing root
The aircraft was armed with fuselage-mounted 7.92 mm MG 17s and wing-mounted 20 mm MG 151 cannons, maintaining combat effectiveness during scouting missions.
Fw 190 A-4/U7 (High-Altitude Fighter)
This variant was built for high-altitude operations, easily identified by compressor air intakes located on both sides of the engine cowling.
The type was notably flown by Adolf Galland in the spring of 1943, highlighting its limited but significant operational use.
Fw 190 A-4/U8 (Jabo-Rei – Long-Range Fighter-Bomber)
The U8 modification transformed the aircraft into a long-range strike platform, featuring
Two 300 L (79 US gal) drop tanks, one mounted under each wing using VTr-Ju 87 racks with duralumin fairings designed by Weserflug
A centreline ETC bomb rack
To reduce weight, the outer 20 mm MG FF/M cannons and cowling-mounted 7.92 mm MG 17s were removed.
This variant served as a precursor to the Fw 190 G-1.
Fw 190 A-4/R1
The R1 was fitted with a FuG 16ZY radio set and a Morane “whip” aerial under the port wing.
These aircraft, known as Leitjäger (Fighter Formation Leaders), were integrated into Y-Verfahren (Y-Control) command networks, allowing ground-based tracking and guidance.
This system saw increased implementation beginning with the A-5 model.
Fw 190 A-5
Introduced after it was determined that the airframe could support heavier loads, the Fw 190 A-5 was adapted to carry increased ordnance.
To accommodate this, the BMW 801 D-2 engine was relocated 15 cm (5.9 in) forward, a modification first trialled on the A-3/U1.
This adjustment shifted the centre of gravity forward, enabling greater payload capacity in the rear fuselage.
Fw 190 A-5/U2 (Night Jabo-Rei Variant)
Designed for night operations, the U2 featured
Anti-reflective surfaces and exhaust flame dampers for reduced visibility
A centreline ETC 501 rack typically loaded with a 250 kg (550 lb) bomb
Under wing racks carrying 300 L (79 US gal) drop tanks
A EK16 gun camera and landing lights mounted in the wing leading edges
Armament limited to two 20 mm MG 151 cannons
Fw 190 A-5/U3 (Jabo Fighter Variant)
Outfitted with ETC 501 racks for bombs and drop tanks, this variant was similarly armed with just two 20 mm MG 151s, prioritising strike capability over defensive firepower.
Fw 190 A-5/U4 (Reconnaissance Fighter)
Equipped for tactical reconnaissance, the U4 included
Two RB 12.5 cameras in the fuselage
Full armament of the A-5, excluding the MG FF cannons
Fw 190 A-5/U8 (Long-Range Jabo-Rei)
Configured for extended missions, this version featured
Centreline-mounted SC-250 bomb
Under wing 300 L drop tank
Armament reduced to two MG 151s
This design formed the basis for the later Fw 190 G-2.
Fw 190 A-5/U9
A testbed for features later adopted in the Fw 190 A-7, used to evaluate upgraded systems and layout changes.
Fw 190 A-5/U12 (Bomber Interceptor Variant)
Specially built for anti-bomber missions, the U12 was armed with
Two 7.92 mm MG 17 machine guns
Two 20 mm MG 151 cannons
Two underwing gun pods, each containing two 20 mm MG 151/20 cannons
In total: two machine guns and six cannons, providing formidable firepower.
Fw 190 A-5/U14 (Torpedo Carrier Variant)
Outfitted to carry a torpedo, this rare modification is recorded under aircraft Stkz TD+SI White 871, extending the fighter’s naval strike capability.
Fw 190 A-5/R11 (Night Fighter Conversion)
Converted into a night fighter, the R11 included
FuG 217 Neptun radar with dipole antenna arrays mounted fore and aft of the cockpit and on the wings
Flame-dampening boxes on exhausts to reduce visual signature
A total of 1,752 Fw 190 A-5 units were built between November 1942 and June 1943, making it one of the most versatile models in the series.
Fw 190 A-6
Developed in response to limitations encountered by earlier A-series fighters during engagements with U.S. heavy bombers, the Fw 190 A-6 introduced a redesigned, lighter wing structure to improve performance and handling.
This variant also featured enhanced firepower with:
Two MG 17 7.92 mm machine guns mounted in the fuselage
Four 20 mm MG 151/20E cannons: two in the wing roots and two in the outer wings, paired with larger ammunition boxes to support sustained combat operations
These upgrades provided improved effectiveness against heavily armoured bomber formations.
Fw 190 A-7
Entering production in November 1943, the Fw 190 A-7 retained the BMW 801 D-2 radial engine, continuing to deliver 1,700 PS (1,700 hp; 1,300 kW) at takeoff.
The key armament modification was the replacement of the MG 17 fuselage guns with two heavier 13 mm (0.51 in) MG 131 machine guns, improving firepower and armour penetration capability.
Fw 190 A-8
Entering production in February 1944, the Fw 190 A-8 was equipped with either the standard BMW 801 D-2 engine or the more robust BMW 801Q/TU.
The “TU” designation signified a Triebwerksanlage—a unitised engine installation featuring:
Thicker frontal armour plating (increased from 6 mm to 10 mm) around the BMW-designed annular cowling
An integrated BMW oil cooler system
The A-8 also introduced the Erhöhte Notleistung emergency boost via C3 fuel injection, raising output to 1,980 PS (1,950 hp; 1,460 kW) for up to 10 minutes.
This boost could be used three times per mission, with 10-minute cool down intervals between activations.
Some A-8s were also armed with under wing WGr 21 rocket-propelled mortars, derived from the 21 cm Nebelwerfer 42 infantry weapon, enhancing bomber interception capability.
Fw 190 A-8/R2
This variant replaced the outer-wing 20 mm MG 151/20 cannons with heavier 30 mm MK 108 cannons, greatly improving lethality against Allied bombers.
Fw 190 A-8/R4
The R4 modification introduced GM1 nitrous oxide boost, offering temporary performance increases (up to 10 minutes) with a 20-minute GM1 supply—ideal for climbing and high-altitude interception.
Fw 190 A-8/R8
A heavily armoured version of the R2, the R8 featured:
30 mm (1.2 in) canopy and windscreen armour
5 mm (0.20 in) cockpit armour plating
It was optimised for close-quarters bomber interception missions.
Fw 190 A-9
First manufactured in September 1944, the A-9 introduced the BMW 801S engine, rated at 2,000 PS (1,973 hp; 1,471 kW).
Plans for the more powerful BMW 801F-1 (rated at 2,400 PS) were under way, but the engine had not yet reached operational status before the war’s end.
Fw 190 A-10
Developed late in the war, the A-10 featured enlarged wings, improving manoeuvrability at higher altitudes.
The increased wing area also provided the potential to mount double-barrelled 30 mm MK 103 cannons, further boosting its firepower.
Sturmböcke Conversions
Fw 190 variants A-6, A-7, and A-8 were modified under the Sturmböcke (bomber-destroyer) program, incorporating:
Heavy armour plating
High-calibre armament (including 30 mm cannons)
These aircraft were deployed in tightly coordinated formations to counter Allied strategic bombing offensives.
Production Totals
Across all sub variants, a total of 13,291 Fw 190 A-series aircraft were produced, underscoring its pivotal role in Luftwaffe fighter and interceptor operations.
High-Altitude Development Program
Recognising the Fw 190’s limitations in high-altitude performance, chief designer Kurt Tank initiated a study in 1941 to explore alternative powerplant solutions.
Among the proposed approaches was the adoption of turbochargers to replace conventional superchargers—aiming to enhance engine efficiency at greater altitudes.
Three prototype configurations were outlined and tested through a sequence of specialized development aircraft.
Fw 190 V12
Based on an A-0 airframe, this prototype integrated several experimental features that would ultimately influence the forthcoming Fw 190 B series.
Fw 190 V13, V15, V16, V18
All four aircraft—bearing W.Nr. 0036—served as early C-series prototypes:
V13
First C-series concept aircraft
V15
Second prototype
V16
Third prototype
V18
Fourth and final aircraft in the initial C-series line up
Each tested varying configurations geared toward high-altitude performance, paving the way for future iterations.
Fw 190 B Series
Fw 190 B-0
A high-altitude testbed fitted with a turbocharged BMW 801 engine, the B-0 marked a shift toward increasing service ceiling and operational versatility.
It retained much of the A-series layout but introduced new propulsion concepts.
Fw 190 B-1
An evolution of the B-0, the B-1 featured minor armament changes:
Initial armament plan
Four 7.92 mm MG 17 machine guns
Two 20 mm MG FF cannons
A modified configuration included
Two MG 17s
Two 20 mm MG 151 cannons
Two 20 mm MG FFs
Following the completion of W.Nr. 811, no further B-series production was pursued, marking the end of this experimental line.
V12 Variants
As Allied bomber formations increasingly operated at higher altitudes, the Luftwaffe sought to improve the Fw 190’s ceiling and effectiveness.
This effort led to a series of experimental and production modifications aimed at enhancing high-altitude capabilities through improved engines, airframe redesigns, and pressurisation systems.
Fw 190 C-Series (Prototype Development)
Fitted with a turbocharged Daimler-Benz DB 603 engine, the Fw 190 C featured an extended tail section to maintain proper centre of gravity due to the larger and heavier powerplant.
The C-series began with the V18/U1, followed by a series of prototype airframes that continued its development
Fw 190 V29
Fw 190 V30
Fw 190 V32
Fw 190 V33
These aircraft focused on aerodynamic refinements and altitude-oriented systems, laying the groundwork for further evolution.
Fw 190 D-Series – “Dora” / Langnasen-Dora (Long-Nose Dora)
Designed as the high-altitude successor to the A-series, the D-series introduced longer nose profiles and new engines for improved performance at altitude.
This series became one of the most refined iterations of the Fw 190.
Fw 190 D-0
First prototype completed in October 1942, powered by a supercharged Junkers Jumo 213 engine. Featured:
Pressurised cockpit
Other altitude-specific upgrades
Designed for operational trials in high-altitude conditions.
Fw 190 D-1 / D-2
These initial production variants carried forward the core improvements introduced in the D-0, maintaining the Jumo 213 engine and structural enhancements for altitude performance.
Fw 190 D-9
The most widely produced D-series variant.
Although originally intended for bomber interception, wartime priorities in late 1944 shifted its use toward:
Fighter-versus-fighter combat
Ground attack operations
The D-9’s success laid the foundation for the Focke-Wulf Ta 152, an advanced high-altitude fighter derivative.
Fw 190 D-11
Powered by the Jumo 213F (similar to the Ta 152 H’s 213E, but lacking an inter-cooler).
Armament included
Two 30 mm MK 108 cannons (outer wings)
Two 20 mm MG 151 cannons (inner wing positions)
Fw 190 D-12
Similar in engine and layout to the D-11 but featured a Motorkanone installation, firing a 30 mm MK 108 cannon through the propeller hub.
Fw 190 D-13
A later development fitted with a 20 mm MG 151/20 motor cannon, offering balanced firepower and altitude capability for advanced interception roles.
Ground Attack Variants – BMW 801 Series
The Fw 190’s rugged airframe and powerful BMW 801 radial engine made it well-suited for conversion into a strike aircraft.
These variants were developed to fulfil roles ranging from tactical bombing to torpedo delivery and long-range missions.
Fw 190 F Series – Schlachtflugzeug (Strike Aircraft)
Fw 190 F (Prototype)
Began as a modified Fw 190 A-0/U4 in May 1942, equipped with centreline and wing-mounted bomb racks for ground-attack evaluation.
Fw 190 F-1
Production of 18 aircraft, renamed from A-4/U3 conversions.
Fw 190 F-2
Based on A-5/U3, with 270 aircraft built according to Luftwaffe records.
Fw 190 F-3 / F-3/R1
Originated as A-5/U17, outfitted with
ETC 501 centreline bomb rack
Two ETC 50 under wing bomb racks
Capability to carry 300-liter (66 Imp gal) drop tank
Total of 432 units produced.
Fw 190 F-4 to F-7
These designations were reserved for development projects and did not reach operational status.
Based on the A-8 airframe, the F-8 featured
Modified compressor injector for enhanced low-altitude performance
Armament
Two 20 mm MG 151/20 cannon (wing roots)
Two 13 mm MG 131 machine guns (above the engine)
Ordnance mounts
ETC 501 centreline bomb rack
Four ETC 50 under wing bomb racks
Variants included
F-8/U1
Long-range Jabo configuration
Two 300-liter drop tanks with V.Mtt-Schloß shackles
ETC 503 racks supporting up to three SC 250 bombs
F-8/U2
Prototype torpedo bomber with
ETC 503 (wings) + ETC 504 (centreline)
TSA 2 A sighting system
Capability to carry 700 kg BT 700 torpedo
F-8/U3
Heavy torpedo variant
Fitted with ETC 502 rack for 1,400 kg BT-1400 torpedo
Required lengthened tail gear
Powered by BMW 801S and used Ta 152 tail assembly
F-8/U4
Night bomber configuration
Equipped with flame dampers, FuG 101 altimeter, PKS 12 autopilot, and TSA 2 A sights
Armed with two MG 151/20 cannon
F-8/R3
Projected variant armed with two under wing-mounted 30 mm MK 103 cannon
Fw 190 F-9
Derived from the A-9, with
Bulged canopy (shared with late F-8/A-8 builds)
Under wing mounts
Four ETC 50 or ETC 70 bomb racks
Production
147 units built in January 1945, with additional production through May
Fw 190 G Series – JaBo Rei (Long-Range Attack Aircraft)
Created to enhance the operational range of the F-series, approximately 1,300 G-series aircraft were constructed.
Fw 190 G-1
Evolved from A-4/U8; modifications included
Retention of two wing-root MG 151 cannons
Capability to carry up to 500 kg on centreline and 250 kg under each wing
Fw 190 G-2
Based on A-5/U8; featured simplified V.Mtt-Schloß drop tank mounts for flexible load configurations.
Fw 190 G-3
A-6 derivative retaining only two MG 151s; introduced V.Fw. Trg bomb racks for simultaneous fuel and bomb loads.
G-3/R1
Replaced racks with Waffen-Behälter WB 151/20 pods, each housing two MG 151/20 cannons; total of six autocannon.
G-3/R5
Removed V.Fw. Trg racks; added two ETC 50 racks per wing.
Fw 190 G-8
Based on A-8, featuring:
Bubble canopy
Under wing ETC 503 racks for bombs or drop tanks
G-8/R4
Proposed upgrade with GM 1 nitrous boost, but not produced.
G-8/R5
Replaced ETC 503 with two ETC 50 or ETC 71 racks
Fw 190 Trainer Variants
To support pilot transition and advanced instruction, several existing Fw 190 fighter airframes were converted into two-seat trainer configurations.
These adaptations focused on minimal structural changes while maintaining flight characteristics consistent with operational models.
Fw 190 A-5/U1
Selected Fw 190 A-5 fighters were converted into trainers by:
Removing the MW 50 tank
Installing a second cockpit behind the original pilot’s station
Fitting a three-section side-opening canopy
Closing off the rear fuselage using sheet metal panels
Fw 190 A-8/U1
Trainer modification similar to the A-5/U1, applied to later Fw 190 A-8 airframes, following the same two-seat configuration and canopy redesign.
Fw 190 S-Series Designations
As part of Luftwaffe internal reclassification:
Fw 190 S-5
Official designation for A-5/U1 trainer conversions
Fw 190 S-8
Official designation for A-8/U1 trainer conversions
An estimated 58 units of Fw 190 S-5 and S-8 trainers were converted or newly built to fulfil training duties within instructional squadrons.
