Fokker V.11

The Fokker V-11 is the Prototype for the later D-VII.

Late in 1917, Fokker built the experimental V.11 biplane, fitted with the standard Mercedes D.IIIa engine.

In January 1918, Idflieg held a fighter competition at Adlershof.

For the first-time, front-line pilots participated in the evaluation and selection of new fighters.

Fokker submitted the V.11 along with several other prototypes.

Manfred von Richthofen flew the V.11 and found it tricky, unpleasant and directionally unstable in a dive.

Platz lengthened the rear fuselage by one structural bay and added a triangular fin in front of the rudder.

Richthofen tested the modified V.11 and praised it as the best aircraft of the competition.

It offered excellent performance from the outdated Mercedes engine yet was safe and easy to fly.

Richthofen’s recommendation virtually decided the competition, but he was not alone in recommending it.

Fokker immediately received a provisional order for 400 production aircraft, which were named D.VII by Idflieg.

Specifications

Powerplant

Mercedes D.III/160 hp

Dimensions

Span

8.9 m

Length

7.0 m

Height

2.75 m

Weight

Empty

700 kg

Loaded

850 kg

Performance 

Maximum speed

190 km/hr

Ceiling

22,900 ft

Endurance

1.5 – 2 hr.