Rob,
I suppose Bohatsch talked about the case that is being discussed on our russian forums for several years. Apart from that two-three planes of 291 IAP that landed in Taganrog, there was at least one case when Soviet plane was captured intact by Germans in April 1943. That was not usual plane, in terms that he beared a commemorative inscription on the fuselage, I do not remember the whole inscription, but it started with: "Stalinskomu Sokolu Leonidu Sminovu...". Some German sources say that it landed in Anapa in April and later was tested in Rechlin. Plane is identified as Yak-9. However, first Yak-9s appeared in Kuban area only at the end of May. First victories on that type registered on May 26, by pilots of 15 IAP/278 IAD/3 IAK. While discussing the available photos it turned out that this was Yak-1B.
Now about pilot identification, Kapitan Leonid Smirnov was rather well-known pilot, by the time he was killed in action he had 10 personal victories at his account and was a squadron commander in 148 IAP. He perished on May 13, 1943 in airial combat. As this case when his personal plane was captured occured in April, I suppose his plane was piloted by another flyer, more likely from 148 IAP, or there is a possibility that the pilot belonged to other two regiments of 287 IAD, 4 IAP or 293 IAP. There were several cases that fit by period when pilots disappered without trace, so the correct name of the Soviet pilot has not been established yet.
PS. Rob, I have several questions on the II/JG3 activities during Stalingrad period, can I adress you on that cases?
Quote:
Originally Posted by rob van den nieuwendijk
Hi Nikita,
Thanks for your reply. Alas I do not gave more details on this incident. Only the info I already stated. It is not much to go on. Info is from Leutnant Walter Bohatsch of 5./JG 3 - post war info. He did state a Yak 9; he might be wrong. I could not find any Yak 9 claim during their time in Kuban area, so I gather that this info from his memory has faded. Perhaps you might be able to identify the Russian aircraft and more details.
Best regards,
Rob
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