The most interesting version of the V-1 flying bomb was the Reichenberg - a manned variant intended for use against high-value targets. Flight tests began in September 1944.
The Reichenberg was assigned to the Leonidas Squadron, part of the secret Battle Wing 200 (KG 200). The squadron, named after King Leonidas I of Spartaaaaaa was a suicide unit, using volunteers. Hitler and many other officers were highly against the idea of self-sacrifice, but training on the Reichenberg was approved due to the slim chance of the pilot being able to bale out.
By March 1945, over 200 Reichenbergs had been assembled, but they never entered operation. It seems the Leonidas Squadron was finally disbanded at this time.
More on KG 200, and also the final stages of the V projects, including the V-2, soon..
September 17, 2009, 10:36am
