Hartmann: claims vs. victories

[HGabor]

Yes, this is a theoretical possibility, but in case of Hartmann, I do not think it would be true. First: in the soviet 5th Air Army there were only Yak, or La fighters in the fall of 1944. No P-40s, no Airacobras, or others. Only the radial engine Lavochkins, and the V-engine Yaks. Second: We all know that Hartmann usually opened fire from a very close range. This was his well working tactics. (And this is exactly why often he could not see what really happened to the hit/damaged opponent after his ambush.) But from that close range the Yaks and the Lavochkins were so different in size and shape, that I do not think, that an experienced veteran like Hartmann, could mix up their types. Perhaps the subtype, but not the make. Certainly, I can check the other fighter losses for the mentioned days. I just need some time. (Although I do not expect too much result from it.)

Gabor