A VERY SPECIAL MISSION

Air Classics, Jun 2004 by Hulett, George

In-depth look at intriguing units

On Special Missions - The Luftwaffe's Research and Experimental Squadrons 1923-1945 by J. Richard Smith, Eddie J. Creek, and Peter Petrick (Specialty Press, 800-895-4585, $32.95) 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 units of the Luftwaffe before and during WWII.

Using the previously unpublished recollections of the pilots who conducted secret, long-range reconnaissance and spy-dropping missions over England, Iraq, Poland and the Soviet Union, as well as hundreds of rare and fascinating photographs, this book recounts the history, operations and aircraft of this little-known unit.

Among the unit's many tasks, it was charged with testing and introducing newly-developed reconnaissance, bomber and night fighter aircraft into operational service including exotic types such as the Arado 234, Do 335, and Ju 86R.

Additionally, the Verschuchsverband was tasked with the assessment of captured Allied fighters using the so-called Wanderzirkus Rosarious which toured German fighter units displaying captured British and American aircraft such as Spitfires, Typhoon, Mosquito, Mustangs, Lightnings, and Thunderbolts all of which were repainted in German markings. Illustrated with 360 photos and 15 color profiles, this is a very well-done book and would make an excellent companion with the KG 200 volume also on these pages.

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