The B-534 was forced into combat when Germany invaded Czechoslovakia in 1938. Although resembling something from the last war to many observers, they still managed victories against unprotected Stukas, and even the German 109. Although the German fighters were faster, the B-534's appeared more nimble, allowing them to keep up the fight right up until Czechoslovakia surrendered, despite the pasting Czech airfields recived at the hands of the Luftwaffe.