In the Gotha the truss which Etrich introduced is a
prominent characteristic. The Albatross is a biplane, but this
craft has proved to be somewhat slow and may be said to be
confined to what might be described as the heavier aerial
military duties, where great endurance and reliability are
essential. As the war proceeds, doubtless Teuton ingenuity will
be responsible for the appearance of new types, as well as
certain modifications in the detail construction of the existing
machines, but there is every indication that the broad lines of
Etrich's conception will be retained in all monoplanes.
There is one point in which Germany has excelled. Wood is not
employed in the construction of these heavier-than-air craft.
Steel and the lighter tough alloys are exclusively used. In this
way the minimum of weight consistent with the maximum of strength
policy is carried out. Moreover the manufacture of component
parts is facilitated and accelerated to a remarkable degree by
the use of metal, while the tasks of fitting and repairing are
notably expedited by the practice of standardisation. Germany is
also manifesting commendable enterprise in the perfection of
light powerful motors for these dynamic machines.
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