[David E. Brown]

Steve,

Well, this would be based on comparative analysis of this aircraft against other Me 262s from the unit that were similarly painted (unit-applied wellen over the factory finish). Specifically, the focus would be on those Me 262s from the same unit that were known to have been finished in 81 and 82 (via their werknummern) AND had the wellen applied over these colours. Certainly study of Luftwaffe camouflage and markings is a challenging endeavour that is acknowledged as such by those familiar with the subject. In this case, knowledge of Me 262 camouflage and markings, production practices and paint application, and the circumstances at that time, indicate that based on the balance of probabilities RLM 81 is the best match for the wellen colour.

With regards to ED-2A, we soon determined that our interpretation of the RV band colours was inconsistent with new narrative and photographic information that was unavailable to us at the time of publication (1997) though our identity of the unit was correct. This information was soon revised and included in a separate Addendum included with the book. Other than that, all other aspects of the aircraft's identity and camouflage and markings remain valid.

Cheers,

David