Stars And Stripes

Practice Bombing of Japan

08/04/2024

On August 4th at 3:00 PM Eastern Time, a practice bombing mission against Nordland was conducted. Seven P-40Es and seven P-38s were deployed to escort two B-17Es. The formation was expected to be intercepted by twelve BF109s from the Imperial Nordic Air Force.

The first wave of enemy fighters targeted a lone P-40 that was screening ahead of the formation. Friendly fighters went to its aid while the rest stayed with the formation. An intense dogfight ensued throughout the entire flight, with both bombers taking damage. A BF109 would attempt to ram one of the bombers but it proved no effect. The bombers reached the target and dropped their payload.

On the return flight, the remaining BF109s chased the bombers, successfully shooting one down. However, all crew members managed to bail out. A flight of fighters stayed behind to fend off any approaching BF109s while the rest escorted the damaged B-17E back to base. A lone BF109 caught the formation by surprise, attacking the B-17E head-on. Luckily, it was shot down, causing only minor damage to the B-17E. As the B-17E landed, a sole surviving BF109 attempted to strafe the base but was quickly intercepted by the fighters returning home.

Casualties and Losses:

• 2 P-40E

• 1 B-17E

• 12 BF-109

Debrief:

• Stick to 4.5k altitude in future bombing missions

• Good communications

• Good organization when entering the bomber

• Good gunnery from bomber gunners

• Gunners should try to switch guns whenever the enemy is in dead zone