http://airforce.users.ru/lend-lease/...cles/sheppard/

Some picture examples



Pilots of 81 Sqn at the shelter. On the left is the indicator board showing that
Hurricanes R, P, K, and F, are armed and ready for use
Photo from Mark Sheppard collection(c)



Hurricanes FS-45, FR-44, FP-43 and FU-56 of 81 Sqn returning from an escort mission
Photo from Mark Sheppard collection(c)

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That was interesting information on the web page and some good pictures. I wonder why the Russians did not like the Spitfire ? I never did read before of the British sending aircrews with their aircraft. Just a few years before, I think the British sent troops to fight with the White Russians and against the Reds. I guess Stalin was really desperate for help in the early days of the war.

Have you ever read anything about the US sending pilots or ground crew to Russia to train the Russians on the P-39 ?

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Work Harder ! Millions on welfare are depending on you.

It is true the Russians didn't like the first Spitfires sent to them, but this was due to the fact that these were battle-worn ex-RAF Mk V's. When the Brits later sent brand new Mk 9's, these were liked and the Russians used them to equip some of their elite Guards squadrons.

[ 21. July 2003, 02:41 PM: Message edited by: redcoat ]

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if in doubt....Panic!!!!

Thanks, that makes more sense now. I did not think about the British giving them worn out aircraft but I guess it happened.

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Work Harder ! Millions on welfare are depending on you.

BTW,

I think the deal to send the Hurricanes was Churchill´s as the Fighter command would have kept the planes as they were needed badly. Winston decided differently in the favor of the Russians.

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