BoB SoW Bombing Invasion Barges?

[MB_Avro_UK]

Originally Posted by Vigilant

Avro, Sea Lion was cancelled because the Luftwaffe overestimated RAF losses (so did the RAF!, but this was more critical for the Luftwaffe as they were attacking), took too long in trying to achieve their objective, and many other reasons - not because barges were destroyed - are you talking about bombing barge targets at Pas De Calais perhaps? And secondly, would you do this in Blenheims or Beaufighters?

Nevertheless, the 'what if' concept sounds interesting...

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.

Beaufighters were not available at this time. IIRC, Blenheims and Hampdens were employed.

My point is that this aspect of the BoB should feature in the sim if the the Battle is to be historically portrayed.


Best Regards,
MB_Avro.