In early April 1944, Kittel achieved his 150th aerial victory. On April 14, he was awarded the Knight's Cross of the Iron Cross with Oak Leaves () for his 152nd aerial victory, claimed on 12 April. Kittel received the Oak Leaves from Adolf Hitler at the Berghof on 5 May 1944. In May 1944, the 2 wing was transferred to augment the 3rd group of JG 54 fighting on the Western Front to provide air defence over Germany against Allied aerial attacks. In August 1944, Kittel was appointed squadron leader. Kittel was credited with his 200th aerial victory on 23 August 1944. He was awarded the Knight's Cross of the Iron Cross with Oak Leaves and Swords () on 25 November 1944.