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Re: Question about Bf 109K-4
Unfortunately, after the Casablanca declaration of "Unconditional surrender" the Germans might as well fight to the bitter end since there were now no other options left open to them. What I mean is, that regardless of when the Germans surrendered, their world would be destroyed.
Although none of the 109s was ever as competent a bomber killer as the 190, it was definitely more maneuverable than the radial-engined 190 (see Nick Beale's "Ghost Bombers" web site). So, it was meant to be the top cover to the bomber killing 190s, to defend against the USAAF escort fighters.
Was it as maneuverable at the 190D? I don't know, and perhaps someone else has data on this. It certainly was not as maneuverable as the Ta 152H at altitude.
Should the 109K have been produced? Why not? Until there was large-scale production of another high-altitude fighter, the GAF needed something there. Yes, there were all sorts of problems, including shortage of personnel; but, until the last day, would anyone dare to quit their work of planning and producing?
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