Luftwaffe

The Luftwaffe was the aerial warfare branch of the German Wehrmacht during World War II. Established in 1935, it played a key role in early German victories through coordinated air-ground operations. It participated in major campaigns, including the Battle of Britain, Operation Barbarossa, and the defense of Germany. Initially effective, the Luftwaffe suffered from production limitations, fuel shortages, and increasing Allied air superiority. It lacked strategic bombing capability and effective long-range escort fighters. By 1945, the Luftwaffe was largely ineffective due to sustained losses and logistical collapse. It ceased to function with Germany’s surrender in May 1945.