heinkel 115 german hydroplane max - Heinkel He 115 GERMAN HYDROPLANE WWII by De Espona

However, the aircraft had its finest moment when operating in the anti-shipping role against the Arctic convoys from bases in Northern Norway. Due to the fact that these convoys initially lacked air cover, the slow speed and comparatively light armament of the He 115 was not such a big problem as it had been over the heavily-defended English coastline. Later on, with the appearance of carriers and escort carriers, coupled with new Soviet long-range fighters like the Petlyakov Pe-3bis, the air superiority over the convoys was challenged, and as a result, the torpedo bomber losses were increasing.

Apart from its use as a minelayer and torpedo bomber, it was also used in the coastal reconnaissance role.