German Air Force

Returning eagles ...

AP.

Ju-87 Stuka dive-bombers return to base in northern France after a raid on England, August, 1940. Early Stuka raids on "spot targets" during the Battle of Britain were unsuccessful. The first raids were (appropriately) aimed at British radar towers - the true purpose of which the Germans did not really understand. Radar towers were difficult targets, even for dive-bombers, and only one tower was put out of action (only to be restored to operation within days). The Luftwaffe might have taken more note of the RAF Fighter Command's reaction - which was ferocious, and resulted in heavy casualties among the unescorted or inadequately-escorted Stukas. Not surprising, since RAF controllers were very well aware of the importance of the radar grid for Britain's prospects for success in the Battle. As it was, the Stukas were quickly withdrawn from the front line of the Battle - and the radar towers beamed on ... Best regards, JR.