Junkers JU 87G-2, WNr. 494085, RI + JK
History
Initially constructed as a Ju 87D-5 dive bomber, this aircraft was later converted into a Ju 87G-2 anti-tank variant. The conversion likely involved fitting G-2 outer wings to the original D-5 airframe, as indicated by the presence of hardpoints for the 37mm BK 3,7/Flak 18 anti-tank cannons under the wings, though these cannons were not installed on this particular aircraft .
In May 1945, British forces captured this aircraft at Eggebek, Schleswig-Holstein, Germany. It was subsequently selected for preservation by the British Air Historical Branch as part of a collection of 12 captured German aircraft. Following its capture, the aircraft was stored and displayed at various RAF sites. In 1978, it was moved to the RAF Museum in Hendon, where it remains on display in Hangar 5 .
In 1967, the aircraft was repainted and modified for use in the film Battle of Britain. Although the engine was found to be in excellent condition and could be started with little difficulty, restoring the aircraft to airworthiness was deemed too costly for the filmmakers. As a result, models were used to represent Stukas in the film .
Today, the Ju 87G-2 'RI+JK' is displayed in the Battle of Britain Hall at the RAF Museum in Hendon. It is one of only two complete Stukas left in the world