The Germans provided a remarkably efficient and widespread air sea rescue service for its pilots. Particularly, during the first part of the Battle: the Kanalkampf. The aircraft carried civilian markings and a large Red Cross painted on the fuselage. Unhappily, the aircraft also carried a rear gunner firing a heavy machine gun. This armament compromised their role as Red Cross aircraft. The RAF also suspected them of being used for reconnaissance purposes, and on 14 July 1940 the British government stated that any He 59s not overtly undertaking rescue missions were legitimate targets. Nevertheless, these German seaplanes were an undoubted advantage to the Luftwaffe and during the fighting managed to pick up a number of downed German pilots, saving them from drowning.