History
The Albatros series of Biplane fighters, beginning with the D.I of 1916, became one of the standard German fighters of World War I. Initially powered by a 160 hp. Mercedes D.III engine, subsequent developments of the aircraft switched to a new wing arrangement, partially intended to improve pilot visibility, and partially to follow the example of the French Nieuport 17 series. The engines remained basically the same, although upgraded models produced 175 to 185 hp., improving performance somewhat. The D.IV reverted to the earlier wing, and was not produced, but the D.V had the “V-strut” wing and the 160/185 hp. Mercedes.