Soviet Crew with B-25 of the 13 BAP
The Soviet Union’s use of the B-25 Mitchell, specifically within the VVS (Voyenno-Vozdushnye Sily, or Soviet Air Forces), is a fascinating aspect of World War II history. The B-25s, provided through Lend-Lease agreements, were integrated into various Soviet aviation units, particularly in the Aviatsiya Dalnego Deistviya (ADD), or Long-Range Air Force. Among these units, the 4th Guards Aviation Corps stands out as a notable formation that operated the B-25J Mitchell with distinction.
Key Points on Soviet B-25 Operations:
Integration into ADD: The B-25s were valued by Soviet crews and were incorporated into the ADD, which typically operated a mixed fleet of aircraft. These bombers were employed in a variety of missions, including strategic bombing, tactical close support, and supply flights. This versatility made the B-25 a useful asset on the Eastern Front.
Camouflage and National Insignia: Many B-25s destined for Soviet service were delivered with camouflage and black undersurfaces, possibly reflecting an anticipation of night operations. This was a rare practice for Lend-Lease aircraft, as the Soviets usually retained the original paint schemes. The red star insignia was later modified to include a white outline, replacing the earlier red star on a white disk.
Strategic Bombing Campaigns:
- Helsinki Raids: In the late autumn of 1944, the ADD, including units equipped with B-25s, was relocated to airfields around Leningrad to participate in strategic bombing raids on Helsinki. The goal was to pressure Finland into breaking its alliance with Germany and negotiating an armistice with the Soviet Union. Despite the scale of these operations, involving up to 600 aircraft, the raids had limited success due to effective Finnish anti-aircraft defenses.
- Tallinn Raid: In contrast, the bombing of Tallinn on the night of 10/11 March 1944 was devastating. Over 300 Soviet aircraft, including B-25s, inflicted significant damage on the Estonian capital, which was then under German occupation. However, this success was marred when Finnish bombers, having followed the returning Soviet planes, launched a surprise attack on their airfields, causing considerable damage without suffering any losses themselves.
Combat Effectiveness: The B-25s’ role in the ADD was significant enough for some units to earn the Order of the Red Banner, an indication of their performance in combat. The aircraft were generally well-regarded by their crews, who adapted them to various roles in the challenging conditions of the Eastern Front.