Austrian and German Markings

Just noticed something very interesting about the Austrian markings and German Markings.

Germans seemed to use both the Iron Cross and the standard (Latin Cross, I believe, though not sure).

Germans seemed to use the Iron Cross primarily on the Albatross fighters, but use the other on the rest of their forces.

Whereas Austria seemed to use the Iron Cross exclusively.

Now, is my perception correct, and can anyone explain what I'm seeing to me?

[Dan_San_Abbott]

Grey:
If I understand your question, you think the Germans used the Iron Cross and Latin at the same time? The answer is no. Both the Germans and Austrian used the Iron Cross as a National marking. germany changed the from the Iron Cross to the Balken(beam) cross from in March 1918, modified the form in April 1918 and in June Changed to the Latin Cross. ustia followed the German form and changed to the Latin style cross a little later than Germany. When the cross style was changed , it was changed on all all aircraft at the about same time.
Blue skies,
Dan-San Abbott

Very good, I wasn't sure what I was asking, but I think you gave me the answer I needed.

Very interesting answer at that.

Is there any particular known reason why the Germans changed markings so late in the war?

I believe that the reason for the change in cross style was the dicovery that shape, and not colour, was the most important aspect of aircraft markings. At a distance, or in the excitement of combat, the "Iron" cross marking could blur into something looking like the roundel used by the Allies. The 1918 straight armed cross, especially the thin-armed cross of late 1918, looked nothing like a roundel. I hope this helps.

The shape being important is illustrated by the many Allied combat reports stating the Germans were using a black cockade or circular marking. I have only seen one photo of the white background being circular from the tips of the cross. Perhaps there are more examples - but obviously in the air the shape of the earlier cross tended to look circular - hence the change.

John

particularly interesting reading.

Now on this note, Austria didn't change. I wonder why.