The Luftwaffe was the aerial warfare branch of the German Wehrmacht during World War II. Established in 1935, it played a crucial role in various military campaigns, including the Blitzkrieg tactics that emphasized rapid and coordinated attacks. The Luftwaffe operated a range of aircraft, from fighters to bombers, and was instrumental in the early successes of the German military. Throughout the war, the Luftwaffe faced significant challenges, especially as the conflict progressed. Allied forces developed effective countermeasures, and the Luftwaffe struggled with resource shortages and strategic setbacks. By the end of the war in 1945, the Luftwaffe had been largely defeated, marking a significant decline in its operational capabilities.