Aces at Kursk: The Battle for Aerial Supremacy on the Eastern Front, 1943

The Battle of Kursk in July 1943 is known for being the largest tank battle in history. A Russian victory, it marked the decisive end of the German offensive capability on the Eastern Front and set the scene for the Soviet successes that followed. While many have focused on the tank engagements, especially the Battle of Prokhorovka, there was an intense air battle going on overhead that was bigger than the Battle of Britain.

As part of the German offensive, the Luftwaffe’s VIII Air Corps dep...