Hs126

The Henschel Hs 126 was a German reconnaissance and attack aircraft used by the Luftwaffe during the Spanish Civil War and the early years of World War II. Designed by Henschel Flugzeugwerke, it was a two-seat, single-engine biplane intended for close air support and battlefield reconnaissance.

Development began in the mid-1930s, with the first prototype flying in 1936. The Hs 126 featured a robust construction and good maneuverability, making it suitable for operations from rough airstrips. It was powered by a Bramo radial engine. The aircraft was armed with defensive machine guns for the observer and provisions for light bombs.

The Hs 126 saw extensive service with the Condor Legion in the Spanish Civil War, where it proved effective in its intended roles. Following this, it was deployed widely at the start of World War II, particularly in the Polish and French campaigns. Its performance in these early conflicts was generally satisfactory, although its biplane design and relatively low speed began to make it vulnerable as air combat evolved.

As the war progressed and faster, more capable aircraft became available, the Hs 126 was gradually relegated to secondary roles, such as night harassment and training. By the later stages of the war, it was largely replaced by monoplane designs. Despite its eventual obsolescence, the Hs 126 served as a reliable workhorse for the Luftwaffe during a critical period.