He111 - W.Nr.2813

[obdl3945]

Hi...

Can anyone assist in confirming what sub-type this machine may have been, and perhaps what unit it served with? I have conflicting information that suggests 1) that it is an H-3 version, possibly coded SI+GW and operational with KGrzbV 2 at Stalingrad, with it's parent unit being Blindflugschule V (5?) at Königsberg-Devau. However, option 2) suggests KGrzbV 5 but does not offer any information on the sub-type.

Thanks in advance for any information.

Regards,

Paul

[Andreas Brekken]

Hi.

I suspect that this aircraft was a P-model converted into H-? after the following accident:

http://www.aviationhistory.no/ref_db...?lossid=117984

Which H-model is of course difficult to say.

Regards,
Andreas B

[Stig Jarlevik]

Andreas

80% damage, would that really have been worthwhile to rebuild?

Cheers
Stig

[Andreas Brekken]

Dear Stig.

I guess it depends on what the damage was. Also, as far as I can see from other damaged aircraft a repair would carry the WNr of the fuselage Even if almost all other parts were changed (wings, engine(s), armament and interiør parts), much like a major overhaul today.

I know it was other times, but a He 111 fuselage is a major piece of equipment, and this was early on, when the industry was still in pre-war mode.

I have substantial records with listings of repaired He 111's and will check if this one appears during my vacation.

Regards,
Andreas B

[obdl3945]

Hi, Andreas...

Many thanks for getting back to me. I thought initially it would be good news, then I read about the 'rebuild' possibilities!

The picture I was looking at is on page 68 of 'Jet & Prop Band1' and shows the left side three quarter view looking forward. The 'Blind Cow' training unit emblem is clearly visible behind the cockpit glazing, as is most of the fuselage code. The only S?+GW code presently listed on the LEMB Stammkennzeichen database is SI+GW, but offers no sub-type information. 'Jet & Prop' suggests an H-3, which would probably tie in with your thoughts on the fuselage being repaired and possibly the wings etc coming in from a different source in order to make the machine airworthy again. All very interesting... I would be obliged if you could double check your records when you have time and let me know .

Thanks again,

Kindest regards,

Paul

[David Ransome]

Hi Paul,

I have it as a P-2, one of a batch 2791 - 2864 which I have as mostly with KG55. It was shown in the loss list as written off after its 80% damage in the forced landing at Nantes on 30 August 1940. With that level of damage, at this time, I can't see it being patched up and returned to service as 2813.

As always, open to corrections or amendments!

Regards

David

[obdl3945]

Hi, David...

Thanks a lot for checking... much appreciated .

Regards,

Paul