Hans Waldmann (fighter pilot)

Hans Waldmann (15 September 1922 – 18 March 1945) was a German Luftwaffe fighter ace during World War II. Flying mainly on the Eastern Front, he was credited with 134 aerial victories claimed in over 500 combat missions.

Waldmann joined the Luftwaffe in 1941 and after training, was posted to Jagdgeschwader 52 (JG 52) in 1942, serving on the Eastern Front. He quickly established himself as a successful fighter pilot, achieving numerous victories against Soviet aircraft. Waldmann's preferred aircraft was the Messerschmitt Bf 109.

He was awarded the Knight's Cross of the Iron Cross (Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes) on 22 November 1943 for his combat achievements. Later, on 12 May 1944, he received the Knight's Cross of the Iron Cross with Oak Leaves (Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes mit Eichenlaub).

In early 1945, Waldmann was appointed Geschwaderkommodore (wing commander) of Jagdgeschwader 52, succeeding Hermann Graf.

Hans Waldmann was killed in action on 18 March 1945 near Görlitz, shot down by a Soviet Yak-9 fighter.