Though many alleged that the Messerschmitt single-seater fighter (type Bf 109) showed grave failings in the testing time of War, there is little doubt that it was, in fact, efficient and of high-class workmanship. Moreover, a special version held the world speed record at 469.2 mph. In this picture the pilot is seen climbing into his Messerschmitt, one of the newer machines with the 1,000 hp Daimler-Benz engine.
Probably a Bf 109 E or F/Trop used during the desert campaign I'd say. The "Trop" bit denotes that it had a Tropical Filter added to keep out Sand & other bits & pieces that could wreck engines in that climate. Allied Aircraft also had to have this modification added (if in this theatre or the Far East) to Air Intakes or face the same problems.
Gee, that camo's impressive. Only the iron crosses are out of pattern. With an estimated 10,000 kills, the Bf 109 is probably the most cost effective fighter of ww2. Germany's top 3 aces (WW2's top 3, actually) refuse to fly anything else.
