Bombing Germany in 1943 - the 8th Air Force
The trials and tribulations of the 'Mighty Eighth' as it builds up its capacity to bomb Germany from hastily built bases in England
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The second half of 1943 was a difficult time to be flying with the 8th Air Force based in Britain. They were pushing to hit important strategic targets in Germany and beyond - but they suffered heavy casualties in doing so. Gradually things began to improve …
1st August 1943: USAAF B-24s fly into an array of defences and fighter aircraft to attack the critical Romanian oil refinery
17th August 1943: One in six of the B-17s bombing a German ball bearing plant are shot down, as the 8th Air Force tries new tactics
27th September 1943: The P-47 Thunderbolt makes its appearance alongside the B-17 bombers of the 8th Air Force in Europe, along with the P-51 Lightnings
13th November 1943: Extending the range of the escort fighters is crucial to protecting the heavy bombers of the 8th Air Force
See Also:
8th December 1943: The trials of a new USAAF Bomber Group in England