The main task of the Luftwaffe was to support the combat units of the German army. The types and varieties of aircraft and the equipment and weaponry they carried had been developed specifically for these needs. Besides a powerful fighter weapon, numerous Fighter and Hunter aircraft units were formed. The Ju 87 (Stuka), Ju 88, Me 110 (Bf 110) amongst others, formed the core of the fast battle groups, while the He 111 was used as the standard medium range bomber. The nations involved in the Second World War, 1939 to 1945, fought for the airspace over Europe and the Pacific Ocean. It was a deadly race for air supremacy. Only those who held it could hope for victory.