SS Fliegertruppen?

**BenVK** · 07-06-2011, 08:44 PM

Obviously a stange question but this image just sold on ebay caught my attention.

Any idea of what this event is all about?

**Espenlaub Militaria** · 07-06-2011 08:44 PM

We also buy and trade your items and full collections!

**BenVK** · 07-06-2011, 08:57 PM

I think the aircraft might be an Arado AR-68.

**davejb** · 07-06-2011, 10:08 PM

Im not sure Ben, i think the wheel base is completely different re height from ground, also isnt that a radial engine with exposed exhausts, plus the propeller on the AR68 seems to be thicker and larger, just a thought ,could be wrong

**Killroy** · 07-08-2011, 08:21 AM

I think the best clues shall be found in the banners and flags in the background. Almost looks like it could be some kind of air-show/competition.

Jeff

**big ned** · 07-08-2011, 10:48 AM

Hi Ben,

The aircraft is actually a Heinkel He 72B Kadett Trainer. The give away is the Siemens-Halske sh 14 radial engine, also the spragged undercarriage and Heinkel wheel spats, although these were often removed. The aircraft was a two seat trainer first flown in 1933, thousands were built.

As already said, the photo is probably of an airshow or rally. These were very popular, as were National Socialist Flying Clubs all over Germany. It was a way of training pilots secretly for the new Luftwaffe, avoiding the terms of the Versailles Treaty on the limited size of airforce allowed to Germany after WW1. This aircraft was designed specifically for this purpose.

Regards, Ned.