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Early Access: Hs 123 and CAS vs Bombers
🕑 Added 2025-08-20 21:36:51 +0000 UTCTwo new videos for all of you! The first one, linked above, is about the Henschel Hs 123 - an outdated biplane that the Germans used as a Close Air Support aircraft. Or did they? I talk about that and the many misunderstandings/out of context myths surrounding this plane.
The second video is my first answer to the supporter Q&A. Stahlfaust asked me about the tactical and operational difference in Close Air Support and Bomber planes for the Luftwaffe.
Watch it here: https://youtu.be/SQOdRK87ZOE
Comments
Miguel Aldaz
Very interesting video, congratulations. In defense of the Hs 123, it is important to consider that the aircraft did not benefit from the continued development and new variants that other contemporary planes received. The proposed C variant, which included not only a more powerful engine but also a closed cockpit, could have provided significantly improved capabilities. A cheap and robust aircraft available in large numbers might have greatly supported Germany during the early years of the war. Later, as you mentioned in your video, the Hs 123 could have been repurposed effectively for night harassment operations and anti-guerrilla units. Very interesting point as well regarding its competition with the Ju-52; I have always found it astonishing how the Germans employed the Ju-52 almost as if it were a glider—often with predictable results and heavy losses.
O D
One thing you mentioned that I would like to hear your thought on... I can remember in the early 80's A10s would practice strafing runs on out 113s when we were training in Georgia. At that time A10s were the step child of the AF. After Desert Storm they were heros. So my observation is... Pilots in WW1 and 2 plus the 30s and probably now even see the fighter as the cool plane to pilot. Pilots were often disappointed that they did not get assigned to fighters..... the question is: Do you think this attitude was so pervasive in all pilots that it crept into use/planning of non fighters ? And did pilots wast too much time chasing fighters when they should have been protecting mission essential ac ? Thanks for another interesting topic. .
