What was the Hs 123 called in Spain?

Short answer

In Spain the Henschel Hs 123 was known as "Angelito". Five aircraft were deployed in early 1937 as part of the Condor Legion, whose equipment list records them under that nickname as dive bombers. At least one Hs 123 remained in Spanish Air Force service after 1945.

Published: November 5, 2026 · Updated: November 5, 2026 · Edited by Above Ten Thousand · Editorial policy

Henschel Hs 123 drawing

"Angelito"

The Spanish Hs 123s were known as "Angelito", meaning dear little angel. The equipment list used by the Condor Legion records the Henschel Hs 123 A with that same nickname and classifies it as a dive bomber. At least one Hs 123 remained in service with the Spanish Air Force after 1945.

Where the nickname comes from

Several versions circulate about the origin of the nickname, without certainty about their accuracy. According to one, it was said at the time that the pilot "had gone to keep the little angels company", hence the name. Another version holds that on those missions the aircraft acted like "guardian angels" for the ground troops, hence "Angelitos".

Five aircraft under evaluation

Five aircraft were deployed to Spain in early 1937 as part of the Condor Legion. Combat evaluation showed remarkable toughness in close support missions: they could absorb a great deal of punishment, including direct hits to the airframe and engine. The Nationalists were impressed with the Hs 123's combat performance, bought the entire evaluation flight, and ordered 11 more aircraft from Germany. The Hs 123s based at Seville were used for ground support, a role in which their range was less limiting and where placing ordnance precisely mattered more than carrying a heavy load.