Bachem Ba 349 Natter

Posted on May 25, 2020 by Lone_Sentry_Admin

A report on the Bachem Ba 349 “Natter” rocket-powered fighter from April 1946 issue of Intelligence Bulletin:

Bachem Ba 349 Natter rocket fighter
At first complacent in the face of the strategic bombing threat, the Germans in 1943 became fearful, then frantic. They were willing to try out any possibly effective counterweapon. One of these trial weapons was the piloted rocket called the “Natter,” a test model of which is shown here.
Bachem Ba 349 Natter (Adder)
A cross-section of the “Natter” illustrates its component parts. The rocket fuel is a liquid, as in the V–2 type of rocket. The chute was used to prevent wrecking the main motor, which, like the pilot, was jettisoned.
Ba 349 Natter Launchpad
The “Natter” was launched from a frame in the manner of a projectile from a gun. The pilot assumed control after the missile was airborne. The “Natter” represented a cross between a fighter and a suicide-type aircraft.
Bachem Ba 349 Natter Launch
Launching of the “Natter” was impressive. The blast of its rocket gives an idea of the power used in attaining a climbing speed of 435 miles per hour—about 38,000 feet a minute. This speed was attained climbing almost straight up.

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