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Originally Posted by Torplexed
Russia did allow the US Eighth Air Force use a quartet of airbases near Poltava in the Ukraine for 'shuttle' bombing missions in 1944.
Using these Ukrainian air bases, 'Operation Frantic' was designed to help deliver the knockout blow to the Nazi war machine while minimizing the severe losses experienced by Allied air forces in daylight bombing campaigns over Germany. In theory, it allowed American bombers to reach targets deeper in Germany, divert Luftwaffe air support away from Normandy, and provide additional cover for battles on the Soviet's western front. American strategists also hoped that the operation would forge closer ties with the USSR and encourage the ever-wary Stalin to allow access to Siberian air bases for use against Japan.
Of course, after the Luftwaffe plastered the American bombers on the ground in a night raid the accusations and recriminations began.  |
Interesting story, Torplexed.
I vaguely rememberd some of it but didn't know about the Luftwaffe night raid.