Mathematical precision combined with aeronautical engineering expertise defined the career of Otto Hermann Bernhard Behrbohm, a significant figure in the development of supersonic flight technology. His theoretical calculations provided the essential groundwork for the delta wing concept, influencing the design of high-performance fighter aircraft across Europe and shaping the capabilities of the Swedish Air Force throughout the mid-twentieth century.
Academic Formation and Early Obstacles
Born in Karlsruhe in 1907, Behrbohm pursued mechanical engineering at the Technical University of Karlsruhe and advanced mathematics at Georg-August-Universität Göttingen. Between 1933 and 1936, he served as a research assistant at Göttingen, focusing his doctoral studies on the algebraic identity of meromorphisms within elliptical function bodies. Political interference hindered his progression, as the Nazi regime blocked his thesis due to his supervisor's Jewish heritage. He eventually earned his doctorate in mathematics and physics in 1944.
Twenty questions, eight minutes on the clock, and a percentile measured against everyone who has taken it. No sign-up.
Take the IQ test →War-Era Aviation Research
In 1937, Behrbohm joined the aerodynamics department at Messerschmitt in Augsburg, where he contributed to high-speed trials for the Bf 109 and supported the development of the Me 262 jet aircraft. By 1944, research operations relocated to an underground facility in Oberammergau following air raids. Concurrently, he worked half-time for the Aviation Research Institute Vienna, assisting Alexander Lippisch in developing the delta-winged Lippisch P.13a rocket interceptor. These designs provided foundational technical insights for later supersonic projects, including the MiG-15 and the Dassault Mirage.
Post-War Transition and Swedish Contributions
Following the war, Behrbohm worked in agriculture and forestry before joining the French Aerodynamic Research and Development Institute in 1946. In 1951, he relocated to Sweden to join Saab, where he spent the remainder of his professional life. Working under Erik Bratt and Tore Gullstrand, he played a crucial role in the development of the Saab 32 Lansen, Saab 35 Draken, and Saab 37 Viggen.
Retirement and Legacy
Upon his retirement in 1972, Behrbohm moved to the United Kingdom with his British wife, settling in Fingelsham, Kent. He passed away on 12 October 1977. His legacy persists through the numerous articles he authored on aerodynamics and the lasting influence of his mathematical models on supersonic delta-wing aircraft design during the Cold War era.
Fast facts
- Born: 30 October 1907, Karlsruhe, Germany
- Died: 12 October 1977, Fingelsham, United Kingdom
- Education: Technical University of Karlsruhe, Georg-August-Universität Göttingen
- Key Projects: Messerschmitt Me 262, Saab 35 Draken, Saab 37 Viggen
- Award: Thulin Medal (1968)
Questions readers ask
What was Behrbohm's contribution to the Saab 37 Viggen?
He made significant efforts in the aircraft's design, specifically focusing on the engineering and testing of the canard-wing construction.
Why did he move to Sweden?
In 1951, he sought opportunities to apply his aerodynamics expertise to major projects like the Saab 32 Lansen and Saab 35 Draken, which required significant industrial resources.
