Raucherzylinder RZ 65

[ChrisMAg2]

In "Luftfahrt Handbuch, Bd. 1", there is a chapter on a Me 109 F-2 with (eight) RZ-65. From there is this:

[Grzesio]

Here's the website, net_sailor's pictures come from:
http://www.net.bialystok.pl/~hess/r_lpn_rz65.htm


The RZ 65 was a unguided spin-stabilized rocket of 73 mm calibre (sic!).
Two launchers were constructed for this rocket - the EG single tube and the TG revolver launcher for 8 projectiles. EGs were tested with numerous a/c including Bf 109, Bf 110, Fw 190, Ju 88A etc. while much more aircraft were planned as their carriers (eg. Me 163B or Ju 88P). It's said that Ju 88s with TG launchers were used in operational tests against railway transport by EKdo 25 in 1943 not achieving much success.
The RZ 65 was replaced by more powerful RZ 73 (also known as the Foehn), which was just longer, with bigger warhead and engine - thus offering greater velocity and range.

Regards

Grzesio