Bf-110 is THE fighter

[David Hayward]

Originally Posted by Blue 5

The rationale behind the 110s being used as close support was to free up 109s for less constrained escort.

Which means the Germans already realized that the 110 was a pig. They were hoping that very few Brits would get past the 109s, and that the 110s would be able to handle those which did. Had the Germans thought the 110s could take on Spitfires and Hurricanes on equal terms they would not have hid them behind the 109s.

[Blue 5]

Which means the Germans already realized that the 110 was a pig.

Possibly something along those lines but less binary. Fom memory, Fink (Bomber Commander, Luflotte 2) and Osterkamp (Fighter Commander Luftlotte 2) seem to have come to this arrangement to allow the JG to maximise their exchange rate with Fighter Command (Osterkamp appeared to be worried about draining the 109 strenght prior to the actual landing).

Having the 110s as close support was the outcome, though it does have an obvious disadvantage given the design. Maybe the lack of Zerstorer spokesman at their meeting was the critical factor?

[David Hayward]

Originally Posted by Blue 5

Having the 110s as close support was the outcome, though it does have an obvious disadvantage given the design. Maybe the lack of Zerstorer spokesman at their meeting was the critical factor?

The design put the 110 at a disadvantage no matter what tactics they used. I'm sure we have all seen the gun camera video of a Spitfire easily turning out of the line of fire of a 110 planted in it's six. Hiding it behind the 109s was probably the best of the various crap sandwiches at the table.