Friday, September 16, 2022

Warfare In The Air

One of the prize artifacts in the Canada Aviation And Space Museum is a Lancaster bomber. The RCAF typically used these during the Second World War. Our first glance at it is from behind, with the rear gunner position.


A detached version of the turret is on display close by for reference.


Close by is a Swordfish, a biplane that went into production in 1936 and saw some good use during the war, despite their slower speed. They were easier to launch off carriers, and it was Swordfish planes that played a critical part in the sinking of the German warship Bismarck.


Beneath one of the wings of the Lancaster and dwarfed by it is a German rocket plane, the Messerschmitt Komet. Its high speed made it impractical for combat flying.


A model of the Lancaster is displayed alongside the big plane itself.


And here she is. We'll take a closer look at this plane tomorrow.

32 comments:

  1. During my working years at Verona airport, I happened to see a former Russian bombardier operating as charter. It was equipped with glass front.

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  2. The rocket plane looks like a toy under the wing of the Lancaster.

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  3. The Komet looks tiny, interesting collection of airplanes. Have a great day and a happy weekend.

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  4. Buenas vistas de ese gran avión, que tuvo mucha participación en la contienda. gracias a tu publicación ahora lo he podido conocer.

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  5. Thanks for showing the Messerschmidt. I’ve only seen it is film.

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  6. ...the Lancaster bomber sure is interesting.

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  7. I think there is a Lancaster that flies out of Hamilton for special occasions but I am not sure.

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  8. Now these look like true fighting machines.

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  9. Very impressive. This is the first time I have seen that German rocket plane.

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  10. Probably were quite amazing inventions for that point in time, I'm trying to imagine the sound they would make as they fly through the sky, would they have made that squealing sound.

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    1. The Komet would have probably had something high pitched.

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  11. Quite the display of war fare machine ~ great photos ~

    Wishing you good health, laughter and love in your days ~ Xo

    A ShutterBug Explores ~
    aka (A Creative Harbor)

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  12. So interesting to read about these three types of planes. So a biplane actually sinks warships? That sounds incredible.

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    1. The Swordfish flights first engaged the Bismarck. Torpedo drops ended up crippling the rudder, making the ship unsteerable. This left it open to attack by British War ships.

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  13. These planes were part of my childhood reading.

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  14. The sound of the Lancaster flying overhead is something special:)

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