Ar196 pilot aboard Tirpitz March 1942
 

Hi guys

On 9 March 1942, Tirpitz launched an Ar196 on the approach of Albacores from the carrier Victorious, and its pilot claimed one of the biplanes shot down.

Do we know the identity of the Arado pilot?

Thanks in anticipation.

Brian

Re: Ar196 pilot aboard Tirpitz March 1942
 

Brian,

Do these help

Re: Ar196 pilot aboard Tirpitz March 1942
 

Hi Andy

Thanks a million!

I've identified Gottschalk as Oblt z.S. Gerhard Gottschalk (thanks to Lw Officers Careers). Would he have been the observer?

I guess Fw Schmitt is going to be tougher to identify!!

I'm afraid that I am unable to read the German report, but assume the crew claimed two Albacores shot down? Who would have done the shooting?

Thanks again
Brian

Re: Ar196 pilot aboard Tirpitz March 1942
 

a bit more

from - Bordflieger im Einsatz 1939-1945

Re: Ar196 pilot aboard Tirpitz March 1942
 

They reported cannon and MG hits on both enemy a/c of which the first started to emit white, later thick black smoke. Both used clouds to hide and the Arado had to turn back due to lack of ammo and dwindling fuel reserves.