The Messerschmitt Bf110 was originally designed as a long-range heavy fighter. While its range was good, its agility was poor, and during the early years of the war it was found to be very vulnerable to single-engine fighters. Nevertheless, it was a stable gun platform, easy to fly, and it was adaptable to many missions. It continued in production throughout the war, being used most effectively as a ground attack airplane and a nightfighter. When the Allied bomber threat began to grow, it assumed the role of "pulk-zerstorer" (formation-destroyer), armed with multiple cannons and rockets. Against Allied bombers it could be devastating, but its slow speed made it vulnerable to defensive gunners and especially to escort fighters when they appeared. On one occasion, an entire unit of Bf110s was disbanded after taking 90% losses to Mustangs in a single battle. The G2/R3 was the most heavily armed day fighter version built, with one variant packing a 37mm gun. In summary, the Bf110 was by 1943 a "make-do" airplane, capable but long past its prime. Note that by this time in the war the Bf110 often carried a twin MG-151 gun pack fitted on the underside of the fuselage. This is figured into the firepower figures given above.
TACTICS: Against bombers you have the advantage of heavy firepower. Against fighters you are in trouble - too slow to escape and too unmaneuverable to fight effectively. Your rate of roll is poor but once banked into a turn your rate of turn isn't too bad, so you may be able to slug it out (with a little help from your rear gunner) long enough for enemy fighters to give up and break off.
STRENGTHS: Heavy firepower and plenty of ammunition. Shoot early and often.
WEAKNESSES: Very slow. You will rarely be able to escape an enemy fighter intent on fighting.
