Quote:
Originally Posted by MB_Avro_UK
RAF Bomber Command attacked the invasion ports in September 1940 during the BoB time period. It appears to be accepted that the destruction of 10% of the Invasion Barges AND the destruction of French port facilities contributed to the German High Command's decision to postpone 'Operation Sealion'. There were also a number of barges damaged during the attacks.
RAF Bomber Command carried out these attacks at night and the LW fighters did not have a significant impact on losses. RAF losses were caused by flak IIRC. Also from a navigation point of view, the harbours were easy to find.
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I'll firstly say, great idea Avro. I could enjoy really missions like you've described.
I accept the notion that port bombing contributed to a decision to abandon Sealion, but from what I have read, the failure to destroy RAF Fighter Command (which in turn meant heavy depredation to Luftwaffe Bombers) before September, when conditions were still good for flying was the main factor for the abandonment - alongside Hitler's lack of intensity to defeat England in the air, which he had to have to execute Sealion. The port attacks would have cemented this as you suggest
