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In 1940, due to the preparations for the invasion of Britain and
Russia, the Luftwaffe's Transport Command realized a need for a larger
capacity cargo and troop carrying aircraft. It was decided that the most
cost-effective solution was to use giant gliders. Accordingly, the
Luftwaffe issued a requirement for rapid development of a very large
capacity transport glider to Junkers and Messerschmitt. Two proposals
were accepted for construction as the Messerschmitt Me.321 Gigant and
the Junkers Ju.322 Mammut. The Me.321 was to be built out of steel
tubing framework, with wooden spars and covering of fabric. This allow
for quick construction and easy repair. The Me.321 made its maiden
flight in February 1941, towed by a Junkers Ju.90. Takeoff of the glider
was difficulties, since the Ju.90 was not powerful enough. Heinkel
responded by creating the He.111Z Zwilling which combined two He.111
bombers as better tug. The first Me.321 production aircraft entered
service in May. In 1943, following the cancellation of the Stalingrad
operation, some Me.321 were converted into the Me.323 with six engines.
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