Tail Markings on Soviet Warplanes (1941)
 

While assembling the photomaterial for my two-volume book on the air war in Bessarabia and Southern Ukraine in 1941, I came across many photos of Soviet aircraft types with various tail markings, mostly coloured lines painted on the the fin-and-rudder.
I assumed - and mentioned it accordingly in the book - these markings denoted various VVS units.

I am wondering if any research has been made in this regards and if yes, what are the conclusions.

Re: Tail Markings on Soviet Warplanes (1941)
 

Well, it is hard to say, not knowing what particular markings do you have in mind.

Re: Tail Markings on Soviet Warplanes (1941)
 

As I said, 'various tail markings, mostly coloured lines painted on the the fin-and-rudder.'
There are e.g., lines on the top of fin-and-rudder, or painted in an angle, or curved lines on the rudder, etc., etc. Just check the period photos.

I am wondering about the actual meaning of all these 'decorations'...

Re: Tail Markings on Soviet Warplanes (1941)
 

As noted, there were several markings. Generally spinner and tail tips denoted Eskadrilya, blue red and yellow being used in various sequences. There is a discussion as to what lightning denoted, but I believe it was marking of a master crew.

Re: Tail Markings on Soviet Warplanes (1941)
 

That's exactly what I am interested in, namely what markings denoted which basic unit (squadron)? Please add to my 'wish list' the various coloured rear fuselage rings (including yellow!).

I very much doubt this, as I have photos of I-16s with various tail numbers, all sporting yellow (?) lightning on the fin-and-rudder base. It was rather a unit marking (but which one?).

Re: Tail Markings on Soviet Warplanes (1941)
 

Is yellow confirmed by a colour photograph? Tips denoted Eskadrilyas (flights?), rings could be Divizya markings, this varied over the war. There was no constant order of colour within units, eg. red - 1, yellow -2, blue - 3, green -4 like in the RAF.
Although 57 GvIAP used yellow lightning as a unit emblem, most of such photos show different aircraft at different locations.

Re: Tail Markings on Soviet Warplanes (1941)
 

I would like to revive this thread as I have the same question...Soviet combat aircraft had markings on the top of the rudder, sometimes referred to as the "forage cap". From what I understand the marks identified the regiment the aircraft belonged to (please correct me if I am wrong). Has anyone found out more about these unit symbols or has anyone ever cataloged these unit markings ?

Thanks in advance
Oquaig