|
SORTIE 1:
T+0 – (5 min Operational Delay) T+5 - B24s with 6 pilots and 18 AIs launched from MAF58 along with the 4th FG in JUGs w/ wing tanks from LAF44 entering airspace at 20K. One bomber discoed immediately, reset shooting down 1 AXIS fighter with loss of 2 AI and rejoining the bomber stream at the IP. Bombers maintain good formation and provide good results on Ball Bearings and Aluminum Complexes (targets 1,2 &3) at Leipzig. During the inbound route, 1 manned bomber and several AIs were lost to Axis fighters. Due to incomplete target destruction, the bomber stream returned making a 180 to return to the targets 1-3 hitting them a second time before proceeding RTB.
One bomber which, was shot down just prior to release on target 3, re-upped in a B-17 and flew direct NOE to target 4 near F80 taking down ~ 1/4 of it. It RTB'ed NOE and was intercepted twice shooting down both LW fighters.
One bomber had to separate from the bomber stream attempted to get back NOE and was intercepted and shot down with the loss of a crew and another manned bomber was lost during RTB. With additional AI loses the bomber steam egress and RTB to MAF58. Allied fighters provide very good support, impacting the AXIS fighter with heavy loses. The 4th lost 4 pilots with some of the remaining fighters breaking off before the bomber stream reached the 5 line due Bingo or Winchester states.
SORTIE 2:
T+125 - B17s with 5 pilots and AIs launched from MAF58 along with the 4th FG in JUGs and wing tanks from LAF44 entering airspace at 20K. Bomber stream maintained good formation to integrate with close 4th fighter support. Using the reverse of the 1st route the bomber stream hit the 4th target at Kassel again with excellent results taking the entire Avionics Complex down. Good fighter support provided the bomber stream with minimal loses. 1 lost to disco and the remaining manned bombers RT home with several AIs lost to enemy fighters. Pilots lost to AXIS fighters were paired with Bombers to provide additional accurate gunfire.
The bomber stream hit the 4th target just under the time limit at T+260 with the extra time being allotted to the Operational Delay. 4th FG maintained support during the entire sortie.
Thanks to Coolone for frame leadership and planning.
bombr- 4FG/CC
|
bombr-
