A.E.G. G.II at Fort Cognelee, 1918
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The A.E.G. G.II was the first in the series of A.E.G. twin engine bombers to enter production, although only in small numbers. The G.I of early 1915 was similar to the B series single engined reconnaissance aircraft, using the same construction methods, with a welded steel tube fuselage, wooden wing ribs and a fabric covering. The G.I was powered by two 100hp Mercedes DI engines, mounted on struts between the wings close to the fuselage. It was underpowered and only one was built.
The G.II was slightly larger, but it also gained in power, using two 150hp Benz Bz.III engines. It could carry a payload of 441lb, and was armed with two or three machine guns. Some had a single vertical tail and some had a triple tail.
An order for six A.E.G. G.IIs was placed on 1 April 1915. The first aircraft was ready by May 1915 when Idflieg reported that it had a very good climb and great speed. Between 15 and 27 were built, with production ending in May 1916. Work them moved onto the more powerful A.E.G. G.III.
The G.II was originally distributed amongst reconnaissance squadrons, to act as an armed escort fighter. It was too slow and lacked the manoeuvrability to perform that role, and by the middle of 1916 was being used as a bomber aircraft instead.
Engine: Two Benz Bz.III engines
Power: 150hp each
Crew: 3
Span: 53ft 1 7/8in
Length: 29ft 10 3/8in
Empty weight: 3,190lb
Loaded weight: 5,424lb
Max speed: 87.5mph
Climb Rate: 11mun to 3,280ft
Armament: Two or three machine guns
Bomb load: 441lb on external racks.
