WW2 Wasteful operations

Torplexed · 04-03-06, 01:52 AM

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.

04-03-06, 01:52 AM	#11
Torplexed Let's Sink Sumptin' ! Join Date: Dec 2001 Location: Seattle, WA Posts: 5,823 Downloads: 43 Uploads: 0	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. __________________ --Mobilis in Mobili--