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The Junkers Ju 86A was the first production version of the Ju 86 medium bomber, but suffered from poor stability and was soon replaced by the Ju 86D.
The fifth prototype, Ju 86 V 5, was the prototype for the A-0 pre-production series. Like the first four aircraft it was a two-engined low-winged monoplane powered by two Jumo 205 diesel engines, although it did feature a modified wing which was designed to improve stability.
It made its maiden flight on 7 March 1936, and was then used for testing until July. Work on the seven A-0 pre-production aircraft had already begun, and they were delivered to the Luftwaffe in February 1936. Deliveries of the A-1 series began in the spring of 1936, and during the summer they were used to equip KH 142 'Hindenburg'.
Several of the A-0 series aircraft were used for experimental purposes. V 6 was given an extended horizontal fin at the back of the fuselage, and began the prototype for the Ju 86D. V 7 was a command aircraft, with improved radio equipment and room for extra crew members, whose role would have been to command a formation of bombers in the air. V 8 was taken for endurance tests in May 1936, but was written off on 16 May. V 9 was used to test Jumoe 205C engines, and also as a reconnaissance aircraft. V 10 was also used to test the Jumo 205 C. The production series also provided some test aircraft, with V 12 being used to test BMW 132F radial engines (Pratt & Whitney Hornets being produced under license), while V 13 and V 14 became the prototypes for the BMW powered Ju 86E.