During the Winter War and Continuation War the Finns had to fight against superior Soviet forces, especially in the air. Three basic factors made the small number of Finnish fighter planes and pilots successful: The philosophy of the loose and broad section and finger four formations, systematic training in air-to-air gunnery with emphasis on individual accuracy and the principle to always attack, regardless of numbers, which gives the advantage of initiative.
In fierce aerial battles many Finnish pilots became aces. Among them was the leading Brewster 239 ace, Captain Hans ”Hass” Wind. He scored altogether 75 kills and was one of the four men who received twice the Cross of Mannerheim Order, the highest wartime military award in Finland.