Galland's Me109F-2 Special

[petewenman]

Gents hi

Looking for info on Gallands Me109F-2, which he had modified with the addition of two 20mm MG/FF cannon, and which was separately designated as a Bf109 F6/U1 (W.Nr. 6750). This machine along with another 'armament modified' F-2 were photographed when Goering visited JG26 at Audembert in France on 5th Dec 1941. Both arcraft were stationed behind Goering's podium, one on each side. They are shown in the Squadron Signal "Messerschmitt Bf109 In Action Part 2" No 57 at p.9. There seem to be masses of pics of Goering, taken obliquely from behind the aircraft, and pics of Goering with Galland inspecting the tail abschuss markings, but try as I might I cannot find any decent photos showing the side profile mottling and its density, or a pic confirming upper surface camo pattern and whether splinter or curved.

Anybody help

thanks & Seasons Greetings

Pete

[Pilot]

Hi Pete,

set of images appeared in the Bernd Barbas book "Planes of the Luftwaffe Aces" and show several images of this airplane. Interesting that this particular plane have gloss finish. Among the other features Galland personal aircraft also have telescope for the remote recognize of the airplane. Best way for image is to try to find contact with Bernd barbas, Germany.

[John Beaman]

These were two, separate, aircraft. One with 13mm MG 131s in the cowling, and the other with 2 x 20mm MGFFm in the wings. Galland admitted, years later that the designation of F-6 was a fake, meant to throw off any allied intelligence. There was no "official" deisgnation for the machines. Both a/c were specially modified for Galland as he felt the normal F-2 was underarmed for the average pilot to get good hits, especially with the B-17 on the way.

As for the glossy paint this was not uncommon for German fighters, or fighters of any nation. Diaries often speak of ground crew "polishing" aircraft to get a few more knots of speed. German paint had a natural semi-gloss finish when new.