Junkers Ju-52

The Junkers Ju-52 ("Tante Ju" or "Auntie Ju") was a versatile German tri-motor aircraft used extensively from the 1930s through the 1980s. It was the primary transport for the Luftwaffe in WWII, used in the Spanish Civil War, and served as a civilian airliner in Europe and Latin America. 
 
Military Use (WWII and Conflict):
Luftwaffe Backbone: Used as the main transport for troops, cargo, and paratroopers throughout World War II.
Key Campaigns: Heavily used during invasions of Norway, Denmark, France, the Low Countries, and the Balkans.
Major Actions: Played a critical role in the Battle of Crete (1941) and supplied the 6th Army at Stalingrad.
Other Roles: Used for glider towing, air ambulance, and as an early bomber.
Post-War: Used by the French in the Algeria and Vietnam wars. 
Civilian and Other Use:
Airlines: Lufthansa was the primary user in the 1930s.
International Operators: Used by airlines in Switzerland, Finland, Sweden, and China.
Production: Built in Germany, with license production in Spain (CASA 352) and France (AAC-1 Toucan). 
 
The aircraft was noted for its corrugated metal skin, durability, and short-field performance.