Skill Level: Intermediate

More than 255 laser cut parts

HISTORICAL SIGNIFICANCE

The Fokker Dr.1 Triplane was introduced in late August. Rittmeister Manfred von Richtofen first flew his F.I 102/17 on September 1, 1917 and gained his first victory the next day and another the day after. von Richtofen requested the development of the Fokker Triplane when he noticed the Sopwith Triplane's superior rate of climb and performance in combat. Idflieg responded by asking for prototypes from many manufacturers. While Pfalz and Albatros submitted adequate designs, they continued to use their characteristically thin airfoils. The Fokker design used thicker wings with internal bracing. The combination eliminated the need for rigging wires and gave the Fokker a faster rate of climb. It was this feature that von Richtofen wanted and Fokker won the contract.