Focke-Achgelis Fa 330A-1, WNr. 100206
History
This particular Fa 330A-1 was deployed aboard the German submarine U-196, a Type IX-D2 U-boat. The Fa 330 was a tethered autogyro designed to extend the visual range of submarines by providing an elevated lookout position. The observer, seated in a harness beneath the rotor, was lifted to an altitude of approximately 120 meters, allowing for a visual range of up to 25 nautical miles. The Fa 330 was towed behind the submarine at speeds of up to 40 km/h, and in the event of a threat, the observer could release the towline and descend by parachute. Musée de l'Air et de l'Espace.
After the war, the Fa 330A-1 W.Nr. 100206 was recovered in Bordeaux and subsequently tested by the French Navy in the large wind tunnel at Chalais-Meudon in July 1945. During its restoration, components from another example (W.Nr. 100115 or 100145) were used. The aircraft is now displayed in the Hall of Helicopters at the museum.