The Strange Triplane No One Expected to Become a Killer

Manfred von Richthofen, aka the Red Baron, flew Germany’s famed Fokker Dr.I triplane during World War I, a plane known for its remarkable agility and climb rate. Though highly maneuverable, the Dr.I also had significant flaws that led to tragic losses for German pilots.

The Race for Air Supremacy

In early 1917, the Sopwith Camel Triplane dominated the skies for the Allies. Germany needed a countermeasure, and aircraft manufacturers rushed to develop a response.

Fokker’s solution was the Dr.I triplane, designed to rival the Sopwith’s agility and outmaneuver the competition.

Distinctive Design

The Fokker Dr.I’s distinctive three-wing design gave it excellent agility in tight turns. Made of wood and fabric, the wings were cantilevered, eliminating the need for external bracing, and the plane was supported by a steel tubular frame.

Weighing only 1,290 pounds at takeoff, the Dr.I was powered by a 110-horsepower Oberursel UR-II rotary engine.

The Red Baron’s Approval

Richthofen first flew the Fokker Dr.I on September 1, 1917, and immediately praised its maneuverability. He declared it superior to the British Sopwith Triplane and recommended that fighter squadrons be equipped with the Dr.I. His endorsement led to an order of 300 planes.

Although its top speed was only 115 mph, the Dr.I’s agility in the air made it a deadly opponent. Its three wings allowed it to execute precise acrobatic maneuvers, and its ability to turn tightly in both directions gave German pilots an edge in dogfights.

Allied pilots quickly learned that trying to out-turn the Dr.I was a critical mistake. The plane’s climb rate also enhanced its performance, cementing its reputation as a fearsome dogfighter.

Problems and Limitations

Despite its advantages, the Dr.I faced several design flaws. Poor visibility during takeoff and landing, along with a cramped cockpit, made it difficult to fly. Its short wingspan led to ground loops and nose-overs, and it was prone to structural failures.

While it had impressive agility, its slow dive and level flight speeds made it vulnerable to faster Allied planes.

The Red Baron’s Final Flight

Richthofen flew the Dr.I for just over six months, scoring 19 victories and bringing his total to 80. However, on April 21, 1918, while pursuing Canadian pilot Wilfrid “Wop” May, he was fatally wounded.

Richthofen managed to land the Dr.I before succumbing to his injuries, forever linking the plane to the legacy of Germany’s most celebrated ace.