Markings for:

• Do 217K-1, Luftflotte 2, Mediterranean area, probably 1943
• Do 217K-1, Stab/KG 2, Holland, 1943
• Do 217K-1, 1./KG 66, Chartres, France, summer 1943
• Do 217K-1, 1./KG 2, Rhein-Main, 1943

The Do 217K-1 bomber was a variant of the basic Do 217 model, featuring a modified front fuselage section. Its new cockpit integrated the upper canopy into a single unit, creating more crew space and enhancing pilot visibility. Powered by twin BMW 80ID engines, the aircraft could reach 515 km/h at 4,000 meters. The bomber featured robust defensive armament at five points (later expanded to seven) and could carry a maximum bomb load of 4,000 kg.

The first Do 217K-1 prototype flew on March 21, 1942, with serial production beginning in autumn of the same year. Though initially conceived as a night bomber, it served in both daytime and nighttime strike operations across Western Europe and the Mediterranean region.