The often unseen and unrecognised element in aerial warfare, is that of
training the pilots and crews, yet it its value is beyond calculation.
In this fundamental role, a wide variety of aircraft were used by the
Luftwaffe, with trainee pilots progressing from simpler, older machines,
such as the Klemm 35, the Focke-Wulf Fw 44 and the Bücker 131, to the
more sophisticated Arado Ar 66, the Gotha Go 145 and the Arado Ar 76, as
well as heavier aircraft like the Junkers W33 and W44. Gradually they
would be introduced to newer and faster models that enabled them to
experience, to some degree, the type of aircraft they would be flying in
combat.
Recruits would initially spend six months at a Fliegerersatzabteilung or
training depot, where the main emphasis was on drill and physical
training, with introductory lectures on the principles of wireless
operation and map reading. This would be followed by two months studying
general aeronautical subjects, before being sent to elementary flying
school.
The various kinds of aircraft used for training depended upon the role
each individual trainee would eventually undertake, from single-seat
fighters to multiple-crew bombers or transports. For example, those men
ear-marked to become bomber pilots trained on early versions of He 111,
the Ju 52, Ju 86 and the Do 17. In this, the Luftwaffe was also able to
make use of captured enemy aircraft. It also established training units
through the Occupied territories to enable its trainees to familiarise
themselves with different conditions and terrain.
In the less-pressurised environment of the training schools away from
the front line, more care could be taken over photography, resulting in
the author of this extensive study of the wide range of aircraft used
for training by the Luftwaffe, being able to assemble such a fine
collection of excellent images.
