Originally designed as a long-range heavy fighter, the Luftwaffe had high hopes for this twin-engined aircraft. While the 110's range was good, and its armament heavy, its agility was poor and it was found to be vulnerable to fast single-engined fighters. Nevertheless, it was a stable gun platform, easy to fly, and it was adaptable to many missions. It did well against bombers and older fighters early in the war but was dealt serious blows by RAF Hurricanes and French fighters in France in 1940. The Battle of Britain confirmed that the Bf 110 could not stand up to modern fighters and at times the Germans had to provide it with an escort of Bf 109s. Nevertheless, it continued in production throughout the war, being used effectively in other guises, as a ground attack airplane and night-fighter. In summary, the Bf 110 was, by 1940, a make-do airplane, capable, but outperformed by most of its foes.
TACTICS: In the early part of the war you are faster than all of your opponents (except the Spitfire). This is important because you are less maneuverable. Mix it up in a dogfight but only for a few moves, lest your enemies swing onto your tail. Unless you see a good shot coming your way, break away at high speed. At a safe distance reverse for another attack pass. You have a lot of ammunition so use it. Take any shot you can get, and make use of head-on attacks whenever possible. The Bf 110's weak defensive armament consists only of a single 7.92mm machinegun firing to the rear, partially blocked by the airplane's tail structure. It is of little use.
STRENGTHS: Built tough and has good firepower with plenty of ammunition. Decent top speed.
