Plywood from shot-down German aircraft

Place Europe: France, Picardie, Somme, Amiens Harbonnieres Area, Hamel Area, Hamel
Accession Number REL/01326
Collection type Technology
Object type Aircraft component
Maker Unknown
Place made Germany
Date made pre 1918
Conflict First World War, 1914-1918
Description

Piece of plywood (30 x 40 cm) bearing portion of black German cross national insignia. Donor's description states: "Part of Aeroplane brought down in No Man's Land at Hammel 1918. Note bullet hole. "

History / Summary

The Germans used plywood in the construction of fuselages and by doing so achieved light, strong, and often steamlined structures. The Allies used fabric-covered wire-braced wooden girder structures. While not as strong they were easier to repair in the field.