File:F-104G Starfighter ZELL.jpg

English: 20+02 "DB+127" Lockheed F104G Starfighter ZELL (Zero Length Launch) programme testbed. The ZELL programme was developed at Edwards AFB by Lockheed to launch a functioning Starfighter from a stationary position. It would have been used in the case of a pre-emptive nuclear strike by Warsaw Pact forces on German airfields. Over US $25M was spent on the programme which transferred to Germany with many successful launches from an air base near Munich. It was cancelled in 1966 due to the operational difficulties of transporting & loading a ZELL Starfighter, low crosswind tolerance and a lack of range for the returning aircraft if all the usual runways had been destroyed. This is the only ZELL-equipped Starfighter in the world and carries the markings of the original German test machine.

The Luftwaffen Museum, located at the former RAF Gatow airfield, is an excellent large collection covering all aspects of German military aviation. Unfortunately, only one of seven hangers is actually open to the public (Hanger three). Hanger 1 is the restoration area, but Hanger 7 clearly has a "50 years of the Luftwaffe" display inside with some good aircraft, but is no longer open to the public. Other interesting aircraft can be glimpsed inside hanger 6 too through windows and doors.

Its a real pity, because what is on display is excellent.