Operation Chastise: Difference between revisions

Revision as of 00:25, 4 January 2005

Revision as of 21:37, 4 February 2005

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The operation was given to [[5 Group RAF|5 Group]] which formed a new squadron to undertake the mission. Initially called Squadron 'X', it was led by [[Wing Commander]] [[Guy Gibson]], a veteran of over 170 missions. A further 21 crews were chosen from 5 Group to join the new squadron based at [[RAF Scampton]].

The targets were the three key dams in the [[Ruhr area]], the [[Moehne Dam|Moehne]] and the [[Sorpe Dam|Sorpe]] on the [[Ruhr]] River and the [[EderEdersee|Eder Dam]] on the [[Eder]] River. The loss of hydroelectric power was important but the loss of water to industry, cities and canals would have greater effect.

The aircraft were adapted [[Avro Lancaster]] Mk IIIs, dubbed ''Special Bs''. To reduce weight, much of the armour was removed, as was the mid-upper turret. The substantial bomb and its unusual shape meant that the bomb doors were removed and the bomb itself hung, in part, below the body of the aircraft. It was mounted in two crutches and before dropping, it was spun up to speed by an auxiliary motor.