The V1, known amongst English-speaking Allied troops as "the Flying Bomb" or "Doodlebug" is a first-generation German cruise missile developed during World War II to strike at Soviet population centres. Powered by a pulse jet engine that gave it a distinctive buzzing sound, the V1 was designed for terror bombing, targeting civilian populations to demoralize the enemy. It had a range of approximately 250km and carried an 850kg explosive warhead. Launched from ground-based catapult systems or modified aircraft, the V1 had rudimentary guidance systems—initially using a simple gyroscope for stabilization, and an odometer to estimate distance to the target, causing it to crash and detonate once it reached the programmed range. Despite its innovative technology, the accuracy of the V1 was relatively poor, leading to indiscriminate damage. As a terror weapon, it inflicted significant civilian casualties and damage before Soviet advancements in anti-aircraft defenses significantly curtailed its effectiveness.
V1 "Flying Bomb"
Tactical Strike Weapon
Abilities
Unique Attributes
Doodlebug - V1 Flying Bomb UA
The V1 Flying Bomb, though mechanically impressive, is a rudimentary ground strike system by the Cold War's standards and could be intercepted by most fighters even back in 1944.
EFFECT:
Unlike other tactical strike weapons, the V1 can be followed and shot down by aircraft with a speed of Fast or greater.