The Messerschmitt Me410 was the follow-on to the Bf110. It had plenty of power, guns, and was faster than the 110, but it was not as maneuverable. Originally planned as a light bomber, it was pressed into service as a "zerstorer" (destroyer) to help combat the Allied bomber threat, and in this role it proved to be quite successful. One version could mount a 50mm cannon for stand-off sniping at bombers. This was a fairly effective weapon, but in the face of ever increasing numbers of escort fighters, the Me410 took heavy losses and was seldom at the liberty to use the 50mm gun unmolested. In general, the crews of the Me410 appreciated the performance advances over the Bf110 and its firepower. Unfortunately, the advent of long-range escort fighters nullified its effectiveness and made the life-expectancy of an Me410 crew rather short. Note that the Me410 often carried a twin MG-151 gun pack fitted on the underside of the fuselage (when not carrying the 50mm gun). This is figured into the firepower figures given above.
TACTICS: Against bombers you have the advantage of heavy firepower. You should rarely attempt to combat fighters as your maneuverability is poor and your top speed is below theirs. Note that you have a rear gunner.
STRENGTHS: Heavy firepower and plenty of ammunition. Shoot early and often.
WEAKNESSES: Poor maneuverability. Fairly slow, though faster than its Bf110 predecessor.
