set 2014 Luftwaffe Papagei Staffel

Luftwaffe Papagei Staffel

JV 44, famously known as the "Papageienstaffeln," stood as a unique and emblematic unit within the German Luftwaffe during the twilight of World War II. Established under the leadership of Adolf Galland, one of Germany's most respected and experienced fighter commanders, JV 44 operated during the critical period from January to May 1945.

The formation of JV 44 was not merely a response to the exigencies of war but also a reflection of the internal strife and discord within the Luftwaffe's high command. Galland's dismissal as General der Jagdflieger in January 1945 marked a turning point, leading him to seek redemption through the command of a unit equipped with the revolutionary Messerschmitt Me 262 jet fighter, whose superiority he had recognized since its prototype phase in 1943.

What set JV 44 apart from conventional Luftwaffe units was its autonomous nature. Galland was granted unprecedented authority to form and lead the unit, which operated independently of other Air Force divisions or corps. This autonomy was both a testament to Galland's reputation and a recognition of the urgency to showcase the capabilities of advanced technology amidst the chaos of Germany's waning military fortunes.

Equipped primarily with the formidable Me 262, JV 44's mission was clear: to intercept and engage Allied bomber formations over German airspace. Despite facing logistical challenges and operating with limited resources, the unit's pilots, many of whom were seasoned veterans and aces like Gerhard Barkhorn and Walter Krupinski, achieved remarkable success in aerial combat. The Me 262's unmatched speed and firepower, coupled with the expertise of JV 44's pilots, enabled them to inflict significant losses on Allied aircraft.

To address the vulnerability of the Me 262 during takeoff and landing, JV 44 established a dedicated protection squadron equipped with Focke-Wulf Fw 190D-9 and D-11 fighters. These aircraft, distinguishable by their distinctive markings, played a crucial role in safeguarding Me 262 operations and enhancing the unit's effectiveness in combat.

Despite its relatively brief existence, JV 44 left an indelible mark on aviation history. Its operational history symbolizes not only the technological innovation of the Me 262 but also the courage, resilience, and skill of the Luftwaffe's elite pilots during the tumultuous final months of the Third Reich. The legacy of JV 44 serves as a poignant reminder of the human cost and sacrifice amidst the chaos of war's end.

Use Guide for the Set Luftwaffe Papagei Staffel

• In August 1944, according to GL/C-E 10 Nr.10585/43 (IVE) Az.82b, a new camouflage scheme consisting of two green colors was approved for Luftwaffe aircraft.
• This camouflage scheme included colors "81" (RLM 81) and "82" (RLM 82), with the undersurfaces to be painted RLM 76.
• JV 44 operational aircraft did not carry any Reich Defense markings; however, Fw 190 D-9 and D-11s had bright red RLM 23 undersurface paint with thin white RLM 21 lines along the entire aircraft.
• The propellers were traditionally painted in a black-green RLM 70 color with the spinner tip painted yellow RLM 27.

Set Luftwaffe Papagei Staffel Includes:

• 261 RLM 81b Dunkelgrün (Dark Green) - A dark khaki-green camouflage color of the upper surfaces.
• 263 RLM 82 Hellgrün (Light Green) - A light olive green camouflage color of the upper surfaces.
• 269 RLM 76 Lichtblau (Light Blue) - A light blue color of the fuselage sides.
• 292 RLM 23 Rot (Red) - A bright red color of the lower surfaces.
• 294 RLM 21 Weiß (White) - An off-white color of the stripes on the lower surfaces.
• 288 RLM 27 Gelb (Yellow) - A light yellow color of the prop spinner tip.

Collection:

• WW2 Luftwaffe

This Set is Best for:

• Focke-Wulf Fw 190 D "Dora"

Paint Type:

• Acrylic A2014
• Enamel E2014

Paint Finish:

• Semi-gloss

Capacity:

• 6 x 10 ml. (6 x 0.33oz)