Dornier Do 17 facts for kids

Dornier Do 17 in flight.

The Dornier Do 17 was a German military aircraft. It was used during World War II. This plane served as a bomber, a night fighter, and for reconnaissance. It had two engines. The German air force, called the Luftwaffe, used it. It was active in the Battle of France and the Battle of Britain. The first flight was in 1934. More than 2,100 of these planes were built. Later versions included the Do 217 and Do 317.

It earned the nickname "flying pencil." This was because of its very thin body, called a fuselage. Its newer versions, the Do-215 and Do-217, also shared this nickname.

The Dornier Do 17: A "Flying Pencil"

The Dornier Do 17 was a famous aircraft. It was designed and built in Germany. This plane was known for its unique shape. Its long, slender body made it look like a pencil.

What Was It Used For?

The Do 17 had many jobs during the war. It was mainly a bomber. This meant it carried and dropped bombs. It also worked as a night fighter. In this role, it would attack enemy planes at night. Sometimes, it was used for reconnaissance. This means it flew over areas to gather information.

Key Moments in Its History

The Dornier Do 17 first flew in 1934. It was one of the main planes used by the Luftwaffe. This was Germany's air force during World War II. The plane played a big part in early battles. It was used in the Battle of France in 1940. It also flew during the Battle of Britain. This was a major air battle over the United Kingdom.

How Many Were Made?

Over 2,100 Dornier Do 17 planes were built. This shows how important it was. It was a key part of the German air force. Later, improved versions were made. These included the Do 217 and Do 317. They kept the "flying pencil" look.

Images for kids

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  The Do 17 carried a single pilot; to his right sat one of two dedicated gunners

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  FuG 10 radio set

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  Dornier Do 17E somewhere in Sicily with DFS 230 gliders, 1943

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  Do 17Z in the Soviet Union, winter 1941-42 showing its sleek, pencil-like, outline

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  A Bramo 323 radial engine is serviced in front of a D 17

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  Do 17Z of the Finnish Air Force, January 1942

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  The Do 17 could carry an internal 1,000 kg (2,205 lb) bomb load, either 20 x 50 kg (110 lb) or 4 x 250 kg (551 lb) bombs

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  Do 17 Z-2s over France, summer 1940

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  Dornier Do 17Z-10 night fighter with FuG 202 Lichtenstein B/C UHF radar

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  The Do 17Z was the most produced variant of the Do 17 series

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  The wing section seen port side removed from tent for manual work (September 2014)

See also

In Spanish: Dornier Do 17 para niños