MB-131 planes in May-June 1940

[robert]

Hi,

I`m looking for information`s concerning captured and destroyed MB-131 planes during the May-June 1940 campaign.

Regards

Robert

[Pieter H]

Robert,

On May 10 no MB-131's were operational anymore, at least on French soil. One unit in northern Africa (GR I/61) still used it operationally, but this one was not engaged operationally. Others were used by training schools in the south of France, and were probably not on airfields overrun by the advancing Wehrmacht.
After the Armistice some MB-131's served in the Vichy air force to pull drones for shooting practice.
I have not seen pictures of captured aircraft.

Regards, Pieter

[robert]

Hi Peter,

thanks for respond - so the photos showing several captured MB-131 with white-black stripes were not taken in 1940?

Regards

Robert

[CJE]

Stripes were red and white, identifying the planes as target-tugs.
The Bloch 131s were captured in Nov. 1942. At that time, only two or three were still airworthy.

[robert]

Hi Chris,

thanks for clarification.

Regards

Robert

[Rémi Baudru]

There are regulary sold on ebay german photos of BL 131 wearing red and white strips (target tugs).
These wrecks are together Fairey "Battle".
These photos where taken in may june 1940 on the airfield of MOURMELON (south east of Reims).

[robert]

Hi Remi,

thanks. And perhaps you know from which unit they were?
Looking at photos at least four were abandoned on this airfield. I have also a photo of destroyed No.80.
Regards

Robert