The Fieseler Fi 156 “Storch”, or stork in English, was a German reconnaissance and liaison aircraft, which proved to be a very versatile aircraft during World War Two. Conceived by Gerhard Fieseler in the early 1930s, the plane was designed to meet a specific set of requirements, emphasizing short takeoff and landing capabilities, excellent low-speed handling, and the ability to operate in confined spaces. The plane thanks its nickname “Storch” to its typical long-legged chassis.
Role
After its introduction in 1937, the Storch quickly gained a reputation for its exceptional performance. Its high-lift wings, slotted flaps, and leading-edge slats allowed it to take off and land in incredibly short distances, sometimes as little as 60 meters. This capability made it invaluable for reconnaissance and liaison duties on the Eastern and Western Fronts during World War Two. There was also a special version for medical purposes.
Specifications
Powered by a 240-horsepower Argus As 10 air-cooled piston engine, the Storch had a maximum speed of around 175 km/h (109 mph) and a minimum speed of 45 km/h (28 mph). Its slow cruising speed, coupled with its ability to fly at extremely low altitudes, made it an ideal platform for observation and artillery spotting. The aircraft’s ability to hover almost stationary in the air, aided by leading-edge slats that could be deployed to allow extremely slow flight, further enhanced its utility.
Armament
The Storch could be armed with a 7.92 mm MG 15, up to three 50 kg bombs or one 135 kg depth charge or 48 bulk bombs.
C-7 version
The Storch in the pictures is a Fi 156 C-7 version, which was a three-seat liaison aircraft. It has a “flat” glazing of the cockpit, which is similar to the C-1 version. A total of 130 pieces of this version were built.
Famous missions
The Storch’s most famous mission occurred in 1943 when German SS-officer Otto Skorzeny used a specially modified Fieseler Fi 156 C-3/Trop Storch (Werknummer 1268) to rescue the deposed Italian dictator Benito Mussolini from captivity in the Gran Sasso mountain range. The Storch’s exceptional STOL (short takeoff and landing) capabilities were crucial for executing the daring rescue mission on a small, improvised mountain airstrip.
Another famous mission occurred on the 26th of April 1945, when Aviatrix Hanna Reitsch together with Robert Ritter von Greim, landed her Storch under heavy fire on an improvised airstrip in the Tiergarten near the Brandenburg Gate during the Battle of Berlin to reach the Führerbunker.
Post-war
Post-war, the Storch became a popular aircraft for various civilian uses, including air ambulance, forestry patrol, and agricultural operations. The aircraft’s adaptability and reliability contributed to its continued service long after the war.
