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FlaK 43 Zwilling
By as early as 1941, Bomber Command reported light and medium flak to be effective ‘up to at least 12,000ft, and possibly up to 16,000ft’. Because of the RAF’s lower operating heights, light and medium flak was effectively employed throughout the war. In order to increase firepower, the Flakwaffe developed the 37mm FlaK 43 Zwilling. Its twin‑barrel configuration increased rate of fire to more than 250 rounds per minute, although operators complained that it was both top‑heavy and too unwieldy to move with ease. Fortunately for RAF bomber crews, relatively few FlaK 43 Zwilling batteries were produced, with just 390 being in service in 1945.