Wellies over the Bight 80 years ago

[cardboard_killer]

"RAF Wellingtons attack out of the sun to hit a German convoy near Heligoland Bight.

 

No merchant ships are hit though the anti-aircraft training ship Brummer and auxiliary minesweeper M-1407 are both struck by bombs that pass through without detonating. The minesweeper will founder before she can reach port. No British aircraft are lost though intercepted by pursuing Bf-109s while returning to base. One Messerschmitt is downed by defensive fire, reinforcing the notion that massed defensive fire obviates the need for escorts. "

 

 

[BOO]

I believe the photo is one of a number ofr publicity shots taken of 9Sqdn shortly before or just after the start of the war flying over and around RAF Stadishall. Often cited also as "on a mission" so perhaps it could have been that raid. Im not sure when or if all of the early Mk1s got powered front turrets. 

 

After the initial strike's success, 3 days later the notion of the bombers not needing an escort was turned upside down....