Messerschmitt Me 323 Gigant

The Me-323 “Gigant” was one of the largest transport aircraft built during the Second World War. It was developed to meet the specific requirement of the Luftwaffe, following the extension of supply lines, to transport troops and materials over long distances. Initially developed from a glider, it was equipped with six radial engines mounted on the wing leading edge, capable of providing sufficient power for fully loaded flight operations. The enormous fuselage was able to carry troops—more than 120 men—supplies, artillery pieces, and light vehicles. Its great transport capacity compromised its maximum speed, which only slightly exceeded 240 km/h. It was employed on the North African and Tunisian fronts to supply the Afrika Korps from bases in Sicily, as well as on the Russian front. It is considered a milestone in transport aircraft history.