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Post by sapper44 on Mar 19, 2009 17:18:52 GMT -5
Hello all;
Just a few general questions about VDV;
1. Were the airborne forces considered part of the airforce?
2. Did VDV use the rifle collor insig. on the M35 or the winged prop?
3. Did the VDV ever use the blue AF side cap or just the khacki one?
Thanks;
Christian
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Post by crazydima on Mar 23, 2009 10:33:09 GMT -5
Tovarisch,
My knowledge of the VDV is limited at this time. However, I will pass along what I know so far.
Up until just prior to the war the VDV was under the control of the Red Army Air Force. Then an "Airborne Administration" was formed and so the the Air Force no longer controlled the Airborne. The change took place in June of 1941 literally days before the war started.
According to what I have read thus far from Glantz's books, Shalito's books, Thompson's book and from period photos, the VDV wore the air force color(Light blue) for their collar and or shoulder board insignia.
The collar insignia for the M35 would be a light blue background with black piping around it. The M43 field use boards would be the green with the light blue piping around the edges.
It also appears from the period photos I have the propeller insignia was worn by the VDV. However, I do not know yet to what extent is was done. Propellers did not denote pilot status. From what I understand there is a specific sleeve patch for pilots.
Prior to and into the early stages of the war the blue pilotkas were in use. However, current source material seems to indicate a movement away from the blue pilotkas and trousers to the standard greens and khakis of the rest of the RKKA. I am still investigating whether or not they used standard pilotkas with light blue piping.
Hope this helps.
Sincerely,
Dima
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Post by crazydima on Mar 23, 2009 10:36:27 GMT -5
Tovarischi,
Another thing to consider is that the VDV had more than just paratroopers.
Their brigades consisted of armor, artillery, recon(bicycles) and oater air landed forces. Meaning troops and equipment brought in by gliders or on transport aircraft which would land at a secured airfield.
Hope this helps
Sincerely,
Diam
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