The training of future Luftwaffe pilots began at a special flying school, also referred to as the “A/B School.” Cadets received 100–150 flight hours, starting with a few hours of instruction with an instructor, followed by approximately 25 hours devoted to practicing take-offs, landings, and aerial maneuvers. During training, instructors closely observed the cadets, and based on their evaluations, decisions were made regarding the pilot’s future specialization—fighter, bomber, or reconnaissance.
Flights were conducted on light training aircraft, but the schools also included both outdated and modern combat aircraft, including the Hs 123 biplanes. Serial production of these aircraft began in September 1936. The primary role of the biplane was to provide close air support to ground forces, for which it was equipped with two synchronized machine guns and the ability to carry bombs with a total weight of up to 450 kg.
Hs 123s were assigned to air groups for direct infantry support and were also widely used by training units. The aircraft featured a simple design but was distinguished by reliability and good flight performance, which allowed it to remain in Luftwaffe service almost until the end of the war.