Description:
I would like to suggest adding a captured Soviet LaGG-3 fighter (specifically early series, such as Series 1 or Series 4) to the German aviation tech tree. It fits perfectly as a Tier I-II Premium vehicle for Golden Eagles, a Warbonds shop reward, or an Event vehicle for a Battle Pass season.
History:
During the summer and autumn of 1941/1942 campaign on the Eastern Front, several Soviet LaGG-3 fighters were captured by the German forces in operational or repairable condition. At least one LaGG-3 (early series) was sent to the Erprobungsstelle Rechlin (the main Luftwaffe test center) for thorough flight and evaluation trials.
German test pilots noted the extreme structural durability of the “delta-wood” construction, though they criticized the aircraft’s heavy weight and poor power-to-weight ratio compared to the Bf 109. Introducing this aircraft would give German players a unique opportunity to experience Soviet design philosophy and flight characteristics within their own lineup, similar to the captured Yak-1B already present in the German tree.
Suggested Placement & Gameplay Role:
• Country: Germany (Captured)
• Classification: Fighter
• Rank: I or II
• Estimated Battle Rating: 2.0 – 2.3 (Realistic Battles)
• Role: Premium / Event / Battle Pass Reward
Performance Specifications:
• Engine: Klimov M-105P (1,050 hp)
• Maximum Speed: ~550-575 km/h at altitude
• Construction: Delta-wood (highly resistant to fire and structural damage)
Armament:
• 1 x 20 mm ShVAK cannon (mounted through the propeller hub)
• 2 x 7.62 mm ShKAS machine guns (or 1 x 12.7 mm Berezin UB machine gun depending on the exact chosen early sub-series).
Visuals & Camouflage:
The aircraft should feature its historical Luftwaffe evaluation livery: Soviet green/black camouflage painted over with German Balkenkreuz crosses on the wings and fuselage, a swastika on the tail, and standard Luftwaffe yellow tactical theater markings on the engine cowling and under the wingtips for rapid identification.
No. Doesn’t belong
Thank you for your feedback! However, Germany already has captured Soviet aircraft like the Yak-1B and Il-2 in the game, which have been there for years. This LaGG-3 would be a historical addition since it was thoroughly tested at Rechlin. As a low-tier premium or a rare battle pass reward, it won’t break the matchmaker but will offer a unique piece of history for collectors