On Special Missions

Download or read book On Special Missions written by John Richard Smith and published by Classic Publications. This book was released on 2003 with total page 136 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: This is the remarkable story of the Verschuchsverband, the Trials and Research Unit of the Luftwaffe High Command, one of the most intriguing, clandestine and rarely-covered elements of the Luftwaffe before and during World War 2. Using previously unpublished recollections from pilots who flew secret, long-range reconnaissance and spy-dropping missions over England, Iraq, Poland and the USSR, as well as hundreds of rare and fascinating photographs, the book recounts the history, operations and aircraft of the unit. Among the unit's many tasks, it was charged with testing and introducing newly developed reconnaissance, bomber and nightfighter aircraft into operational service. These aircraft include 'exotic' types such as the Ar 234 jet, the huge Do 335 fighter and extreme high-altitude Ju 86R.