REPORT ON THE JUNKER ALL-METAL ARMOURED BIPLANE TYPE J.I. July 1919Reports on German Aircraft 14

In late 1916 the demand for a durable observation aircraft capable of performing ground attack missions led to the introduction of the Junkers J.I. Developed in early 1917 it was the world's first all-metal aircraft produced in quantity. Eliminating the need for external bracing wires the fuselage wings and tail were constructed of Duralumin while the engine and two-man crew were protected by a nose-capsule of 5-mm chrome-nickel sheet-steel. Although this unique design resulted in a strong and durable aircraft capable of surviving the effects of enemy ground fire the Junkers J.I was heavy cumbersome and took forever to get off the ground.