Application of Stammkennzeichen...

[Rabe Anton]

Servus MIlos!

You have gotten a good answer about paints used for SKZ. That answer helps explain the traces of the SKZ you see on Fw 190 WNr. 403. The same temporary paint situation also applies to most operational (combat) Luftwaffe aircraft, that is, the lettering was removed after delivery to a unit in the field.

Having said the above, not all SKZs were "removeable" or "washable." It is important to note that permanent paint was used to apply the SKZ on many non-operational aircraft such as trainers, communications, transport, and experimental kites. This is/was because the
SKZ on these machines represented their individual identity while in Luftwaffe service. Thus, it would not be acceptable to have these markings washed off.

Best,
RA