AA38809 Dornier Do 17Z-5 W.Nr.2787 / 7T+HH

One of the most distinctive aircraft to have taken part in the air battles of the Second World War, the Dornier Do 17 is usually referred to by its nickname and for good reason, as the Luftwaffe’s Fliegender Bleistift translates to ‘Flying Pencil’. The Z variant was the most heavily produced of all the Do 17s, addressing many of the shortcomings of previous versions, but still struggling to maintain its place as a front-line Luftwaffe strike bomber. The Z-5 was the last major bomber variant of the aircraft produced, and featured the addition of specialist survival/flotation equipment, as these aircraft were intended for operation over large expanses of water. Operated almost exclusively by 1./KüFlGr 606, this particular aircraft was one of six sent to attack aircraft factories around Liverpool during the twilight hours of 11th October 1940. Unfortunately for them, the raid was picked up by British radar and the Spitfires of No.611 Squadron were sent to intercept them. This particular aircraft, wearing its attractive nocturnal camouflage presentation, did not evade the attention of the Spitfires, and was seen trailing smoke from both engines, presumed crashed in a remote area of Wales. Despite being damaged and two crew members having bailed out, the pilot managed to nurse the stricken aircraft back to France, making a crash landing at Brest. After this mauling, 1./KüFlGr 606 would only engage in night bombing sorties.