Russian Dakota Squadron with 334 Wing?
 

I have a reference to a "Russian Dakota Squadron" at Brindisi with 334 Wing in 1944-45. Also listed are "Italian No. 1 Squadron and Italian 88 Squadron". Anything known about these units please?

Re: Russian Dakota Squadron with 334 Wing?
 

Hi,

This site may hold some useful information for you. It's in Italian (which I don't read or speak) An online translator should the trick.

http://www.eaf51.org/New_Web/Documen...a/ODB_ICAF.pdf


Henry

Re: Russian Dakota Squadron with 334 Wing?
 

Generally speaking the Russians used the original C-47s, not their licence-built Li-2s, for VIP flights. I do not know TBO for C-47 and Li-2 for their various elements and systems but I had an opportunity to compare quality of various airframe and engine parts of both C-47 and Li-2. I was shocked by very poor Li-2 quality and corrosion throughout, meanwhile C-47 with its anti-corrosion coats is very well up to this day. That is why I can understand why Soviet decision makers chose the American product to fly, not their own.

Below: Russian General Nicholas Petrov in Edmonton. He also flew by C-47. Soviet dignitaries were able to forget about nationalistic propaganda "Russian-made is the best".


http://img257.imageshack.us/img257/1629/93872316bi2.jpg

Re: Russian Dakota Squadron with 334 Wing?
 

Hi Martin
Apparently some people used to join just to appear and not necessarily to answer. ;)
The Dakota Squadron is a well known detachment that had both C-47s and Yak-9s and operated from Bari with support to Tito's partisans. I do not remember it's official name, but this can be verified. I recall I have seen a colour photo of their aircraft.
By the way, I am now in touch with an American groundcrew, who was with 334 Wg back in 1944/45. I am looking for an email from you and will let you know more details. ;)

Re: Russian Dakota Squadron with 334 Wing?
 

Hello to all!
I am also deeply interested on the activities of the Russian Party at Bari and SOE Flights. I will suggest the book of General SM Shtemenko called: The last 6 months. Although covered with Russian propaganda and politics, it enhances the Russian thinking and planning of the time. It also provides a short introduction to the activities of th Russian party at Bari.
Their commander was A S Shornikov with the second in command being a certain B T Kalinkin. The Chief Navigator was P N Yakimov. They were all awarded the tittle of Heroes of Soviet Union for the rescue of Tito, which is well recorded on the book. Unfortunately, this is the only aspect of Russian "carppetbagging" operations around Yugoslavia on the book. If I find more I will certainly share with you. I do not know if those pilots and navigator are still alive...or if they died in combat?! Some Russian specialist could help us...
Cheers from Brazil...Friendly as ever
Adriano