Hs 123 on Russian Front

[keith A]

In July and August the Russian ace Koldunov shoots down 2 Hs123, the first on 28.7.43, the last on 23.8.43 in a combat near Dolgenkaya. Can anyone tell me if the Hs123 was still flying day time sorties at this time, and with what units? I assumed it would be relegated to night operations.

I am especially interested in the 23 August 1943 engagement when Koldunov claims two escorting fighters as well.

regards

Keith

[Matti Salonen]

7./Schl.G 1 was still using Hs 123 in Summer 1943:

1943-07-28, 7./Schl.G 1, Hs 123, 2301, Pl.Qu. H.U.7 Cäsar, Flakbeschuß. Bruch ? %.
Flugzeugführer Lt Gebert, Othmar, verletzt
There is no Hs 123 loss on 1943-08-23.

Matti

[Nick Beale]

Originally Posted by keith A

I assumed it would be relegated to night operations.

Keith

I've never come across any reference to the type with any Störkampf- or Nachtschlachtgruppe, so it may only ever have operated by day.

[Andrew Arthy]

Hi,

Hs 123s were serving on daylight operations with II./S.G. 2 until retired in May 1944. The type then made a 'comeback' in November 1944 with that Gruppe, and the last known loss was in December 1944. So definitely never relegated to night operations. Air War Publications is in the process of writing a book about this fascinating aircraft.

At least three Hs 123 missions were flown from Bol Rudka on 23 August 1943, 06:00-07:00, 10:50-12:05, and 13:10-14:10.

Cheers,
Andrew A.
Air War Publications - www.facebook.com/airwarpublications