Description
This is a VERY NICE example of a 100% INERT WW2 German Luftwaffe 30mm MK108 Cannon Round, as used in the Me109, Me110G, Fw190, Me262, Do335, and other late-war aircraft!
The MK 108 (German: Maschinenkanone—”machine cannon”) was a 30 mm caliber autocannon manufactured in Germany during World War II by Rheinmetall‑Borsig for use in aircraft.
The cannon saw widespread use as an anti-bomber weapon during the second half of the war, first seen in 1943 in the Bf 110G-2 bomber destroyers and Bf 109G-6/U4. Four MK 108’s formed the main armament of the Me 262 the next year. It could be found on some versions or optional mountings on practically every other German fighter of the era.
The weapon was developed as a private venture by the company in 1940 and was submitted to the Reichsluftfahrtministerium (RLM—Reich Aviation Ministry) in response to a 1942 requirement for a heavy aircraft weapon for use against the Allied heavy bombers appearing over German-controlled regions by then. Testing verified that the autocannon was well suited to this role, requiring on average just 4 hits with its 85g RDX-load (in a 330g shell) and a resulting strongly brisant high-explosive ammunition, to bring down a heavy bomber such as a B-17 Flying Fortress or B-24 Liberator, and just a single “shattering” hit to down a fighter. In comparison, the otherwise excellent 20 mm MG 151/20 (18g of HE in a 92g shell) required about 15-20 hits to down a B-17.
The MK 108 was quickly ordered into production and was installed in a variety of Luftwaffe fighter aircraft. It saw first operational service in summer 1943 with the Bf 110G-2 bomber destroyers and in the Bf 109G-6/U4.
Made of steel and aluminum, this is a FANTASTIC piece of history! Completely inert, there are some slight wear and marks, however it remains VERY SOLID with various marking throughout. Some corrosion and paint loss as you can see in the photos. Would make a EXCELLENT addition to any collection or display!
