[Cruver Collecter]

Originally Posted by Epapazian

Moving this up.

Since the Finns used a fairly similar paint scheme, going to go with 1) Black and green were the best colors to hide a plane flying over Russia's many forests.

[Epapazian]

Originally Posted by Cruver Collecter

Since the Finns used a fairly similar paint scheme, going to go with 1) Black and green were the best colors to hide a plane flying over Russia's many forests.

It's probably true that this form of camouflage is effective over forests, however, the Russians used the same scheme in many parts of their central and northern fronts, including areas where there are large cities, flat plains, etc. According to numerous books, articles, etc. the primary reason for the use of black paint by the Soviets, as an add-on to their customary all green topsides, was availability. The rapid German advance came as a complete surprise to Soviet war planners. As a result, the pell mell transfer of war plants from the western USSR to the east, caused many dislocations. Often, the only appropriate paint that was available in the required quantities, was black. That, at least, is how the story goes.

[Epapazian]

Here's a new one:

Germany's Dornier Do.24 flying boat, which served throughout WWII, was originally designed to meet the specifications of another country. Which one was it?

1) Sweden
2) Australia
3) Spain
4) Holland
5) Greece

[smartd]

Originally Posted by Epapazian

Here's a new one:

Germany's Dornier Do.24 flying boat, which served throughout WWII, was originally designed to meet the specifications of another country. Which one was it?

1) Sweden
2) Australia
3) Spain
4) Holland
5) Greece

4 designed for Dutch Navy

[Epapazian]

And one from the Russian front in WWII:


During the early part of the Nazi-Soviet conflict, Russia's Mig-3s were often camouflaged in white on their upper surfaces in the winter months. Some of these planes also had their upper wings painted a bright red. How come?

1) To signify their "Red Air force" status
2) To confuse Luftwaffe pilots
3) To help rescue teams find the planes in the snow if they crashed
4) Because Stalin wanted it that way
5) You are kidding. No Migs were painted like this

[Epapazian]

Here's an easy one:

During WWII, a number of countries organized special air force units to ram enemy aircraft, rather than simplt attacking with guns, rockets, etc. Which of these countries did not utilize this tactic on an organized basis?

1) Japan
2) Germany
3) Russia

[Captain Eddie]

Originally Posted by Epapazian

Here's an easy one:

During WWII, a number of countries organized special air force units to ram enemy aircraft, rather than simplt attacking with guns, rockets, etc. Which of these countries did not utilize this tactic on an organized basis?

1) Japan
2) Germany
3) Russia

Germany

[Epapazian]

Originally Posted by smartd

4 designed for Dutch Navy

Correct. The Dutch East Indies navy used them against the Japanese and some escaped to Australia.

[Epapazian]

Originally Posted by Captain Eddie

Germany

The Germans created special fighter groups to ram the tails or wings of B-17s and B-24s as was chronicled in a recent "Dogfights" episode on cable. The Russians also instructed their fighter pilots to do the same thing in 1941 and, possibly a bit later. In both cases, the idea was that the pilot should be able to bail out after hitting the enemy plane---which apparently happened about half the time. Which leaves the Japanese. As far as I can tell, aside from individual and suicidal initiatives by Japanese pilots, no special units were employed for this particular purpose.

[flyXwire]

Originally Posted by Epapazian

Which leaves the Japanese. As far as I can tell, aside from individual and suicidal initiatives by Japanese pilots, no special units were employed for this particular purpose.

It's been documented that Japanese pilots employed 'ramming techniques' to US B-29 bombers.

B-29 Hunters of the JAAF
B-29 HUNTERS OF THE JAAF