Impact of Fw 190A introduction in the east

[DavidIsby]

The introduction of the Fw 190A to combat on the eastern front in 1942 did not have anything like the impact it had on RAF Fighter Command when it had first entered combat the year before.

Much of this reflects the Fw 190's limited numbers and engine reliability issues in 1942, the fact that they were used for air-ground missions, and that most air combat in the east was below the medium altitude where the Fw 190 proved so effective in 1941-42 against the RAF.

It also remains that the highest-scoring German aces in the east flew Bf 109s.

I would be most interested in any sources or insights for this.

thanks,
David Isby