In the mid-thirties the German Air Force (Luftwaffe), as is well known, used bulky, strutted parasol Heinkel He 46 two-seaters for tactical or short-range reconnaissance (Nahaufklarung). Aircraft originating from pre-Luftwaffc times were not optimised for operating speed as well as self-defence, these types were thus outdated by this time. Attempted development of the existing concept brought by Henschel, in 1935, its Hs 122 of more streamlined form with a metal structure, powered by 580-660 h.p. BMW-Bramo Sh 22 also failed, bringing nothing new. Another step towards bettering the parameters of related aircraft configuration was represented by the Henschel Hs 126 powered by 830 h.p. BMW-Bramo 323 radial, reaching 208 mph level speed with a full load, out performing its Hs 122 predecessor by about 37-44 mph. The Henschel Hs 126 when introduced into service gained a good reputation during Spanish Civil War in 1938. but it was soon obvious that the concept of strutted highwings with a fixed undercarriage and opened cockpit was to be short-lived, not able to face the challenge of steadily improving fighter opponent.
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