Analysis of German Air Force Bomber Doctrine, 1912-1939.
Abstract
Hitler's Germany did not develop or employ heavy four-engine bombers during World War II. This study looks at the reasons behind the lack of such a bomber and concludes that the decisions not to employ four-engine bombers were the results of the Luftwaffe leadership personalities, a lack of raw materials, and the lack of engines to power such a bomber. This paper focuses on the reasons behind Germany's commitment to light and medium bombers and dive bombers. It will examine the German Air Force from World War I through World War II and how it developed its bomber philosophy and doctrine. In addition, the paper will look at the people who shaped the Luftwaffe and will discuss other factors that drove Germany to her particular concept of bomber employment. Also, as a measure of comparison, the paper will discuss a brief history of the development of western bomber doctrine. The overall objective of this paper is to achieve an understanding of why the German developed light and medium horizontal bombers, and why the tactic of dive bombing was so throughly embraced by the Luftwaffe.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 01, 1985
- Accession Number
- ADA156246
Entities
People
- R. W. Francis
Organizations
- Air Command and Staff College