1st Air Corps (Germany)

The 1st Air Corps (German: I. Fliegerkorps) was one of the primary operational units of the German Luftwaffe during World War II. Formed on 11 October 1939 in Braunschweig, it was responsible for controlling Luftwaffe units in support of ground operations and for conducting independent air operations.

Initially, the corps operated in support of Army Group B during the invasion of France and the Low Countries in 1940. Subsequently, it played a significant role in the Battle of Britain, directing bomber and fighter operations against targets in the United Kingdom.

Later, the 1st Air Corps was deployed to the Eastern Front, where it participated in Operation Barbarossa, the invasion of the Soviet Union, supporting Army Group North. It was involved in battles around Leningrad and other key areas of the northern sector. The corps provided air support for ground troops, conducted reconnaissance missions, and engaged in air-to-air combat with the Soviet Air Force.

Throughout its existence, the composition of the 1st Air Corps varied depending on operational requirements. It typically consisted of a mix of bomber wings (Kampfgeschwader), fighter wings (Jagdgeschwader), and reconnaissance units (Aufklärungsgruppen). The corps headquarters was responsible for planning and coordinating air operations, as well as providing logistical support to its subordinate units.

The 1st Air Corps was eventually disbanded towards the end of World War II. Its personnel and resources were reallocated to other Luftwaffe units as the German war effort faltered.