Air War over the Horn of Africa (1940 - 1941)

June 9, 2020

26 August 1940

Northern Front

Since his return to Sudan, No.223 (RAF) Squadron tqke off for its first mission when five Vickers Wellesley leave to attack the Asmara airfield between 06h00 and 10h00. The opposing reaction is intense with a strong anti-aircraft defense, as well as two Fiat CR.42 from the 412 Squadriglia CT. During the fight, a fighter is claimed damaged, while Tenente Mario Visintini claims a bomber [1]. Indeed, the Vickers Wellesley K7731 (Pilot Officer Joseph C. Smitheram [2], Sergeant Denis F. Shaller [3], Leading Aircraftman Meads [4]) crashed without the crew being able to jump. [5]

Pilot Officer Joseph Colin Smitheram, No.223 (RAF) Squadron. Source : Ancien Combattants Canada – Mémorial Virtuel du Guerre du Canada.

A little earlier in the morning, at 05h30, the Bristol Blenheim Mk IVF L9218 (Flying Officer Stanley C. Pendred [6], Flying Officer Frank M. Hunter [7], Leading Aircraftman Walter Love [8]) is sent for a reconnaissance of the Assab – Mille sector. However, the aircraft not returnn and the Glenn Marin 167-F No. 82 (Flight Lieutnant Jacques Dodelier, Warrant Officer Yves Trecan, Flying Officer Pierre Fenot de Maismont, Flight Sergeant Robert Cunibil) is sent on research, though without success.

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[1] H. Gustavsson et L. Slongo, Gladiator vs CR.42 Falco (1940 – 1941), Oxford, Osprey Publishing, 2012, p. 42.

[2] « Casualty details : Smitheram, Joseph Colin », Commonwealth War Graves Commission : http://www.cwgc.org/find-war-dead/casualty/2272220/SMITHERAM,%20JOSEPH%20COLIN ; « In memory of Pilot Officer Joseph Colin Smitheram, who died on August 26, 1940 », Canadian Virtual War Memorial : http://www.veterans.gc.ca/eng/remembrance/memorials/canadian-virtual-war-memorial/detail/2272220

[3] « Casualty details : Shaller, Denis Frederick », Commonwealth War Graves Commission : http://www.cwgc.org/find-war-dead/casualty/2272215/SHALLER,%20DENIS%20FREDERICK

[4] The latter may have survived since his name does not appear on the website of the Commonwealth War Graves Commission.

[5] « 26 august 1940 » 223 Squadron RAF : Operations Record Book (Form 540 and Form 541), op. cit.; C. Shores et C. Ricci, Dust Clouds in the Middle East, op. cit., p. 57; J. Sutherland et D. Canwell, Air War East Africa, the RAF versus the Italian Air Force, op. cit., p. 65.

[6] « Casualty details : Pendred, Stanley Clifton », Commonwealth War Graves Commission : http://www.cwgc.org/find-war-dead/casualty/2272185/PENDRED,%20STANLEY%20CLIFTON

[7] « Casualty details : Hunter, Frank MacDonald », Commonwealth War Graves Commission : http://www.cwgc.org/find-war-dead/casualty/2272103/HUNTER,%20FRANK%20MACDONALD

[8] « Casualty details : Love, Walter », Commonwealth War Graves Commission : http://www.cwgc.org/find-war-dead/casualty/2272130/LOVE,%20WALTER

June 12, 2020

27 August 1940

Northern Front

This day sees part of No.14 (RAF) Squadron engaged in a special mission. Indeed, in mid-August 1940, the local command of the RAF is contacted by the intelligence services. According to them, the Regia Aeronautica has planned to try, around 20 August, a shipment of aircraft toward East Africa. To this end, several Savoia-Marchetti SM.79 have to leave Benghazi to land in the evening on an airfield in the middle of the desert, from where they have to leave at dawn towards Eritrea. After a long search, one of these airfield is identified near the border between Libya and Sudan : Jebel Uweinat. However, the neutralization of these aircrafts appears very difficult : Savoia-Marchetti SM.79 flying night, an interception by fighters is impossible and a prior destruction of the airfield is useless. The only solution is to surprise the Italians during the refueling by bombing. Again, the difficulties are many as to identify, at night, an aifield in the middle of the desert and attack for a short time of about an hour.

No.14 (RAF) Squadron is then consulted and a group of five crews is formed.

The detachment leaves for the advanced airfield of Wadi Halfa on 24 August. On 27 August, the code “Gin and Tonic”, announcing the immediate order of attack, is received at 13h00. The five Vickers Wellesley take off immediately to take the direction of the target. Aircrafts are equipped with a mix of 40lb incendiary and fragmentation bombs. A problem arises, however, immediately. Indeed, the target is located about 650 km from Wadi Halfa is about eight hours of flight, which corresponds more or less to the autonomy of Vickers Wellesley.

According to Flight Lieutenant Deryck C. Stapleton :

« The weather was kind,” recalled Stapleton, “clear blue skies, visibility good, some ominous streams of sand scuffing the surface. In the last fifty miles the flight dropped down to low level to make an approach. At the going down of the sun, the silhouette of the conical mountain came up on cue – a jagged pile of an extinct volcano, sandblasted to a core of red and beige vertically cracked rocks. The aircraft slotted into line astern, all safety switches locked to ‘off’ and the airfield in the lee of the mountain appeared dead ahead in the centre of the windshield. The navigators had done their stuff. »

It is, then, planned a first pass with machine gun to damage Italian aircrafts, a second to drop the bombs, and an immediate return to the base. Still according to Stapleton :

« the windsock – a somewhat tattered edition… the refuelling pumps… the landing strips, but no aircraft. All this grinding flight and there was nothing, not even a building, a shed or any transport on the place to receive explosive frustration.”

The Vickers Wellesley return at 21h30 at the limit of their autonomy, the engines of an aircraft stopping when landing.

Finally, if five Savoia-Marchetti SM.79 seem to have left Benghazi, a violent sandstorm would have forced the formation to turn back, one of them crashing in the desert [1].

Southern Front

Regia Aeronautica continues its raids of nuisance and at least two Savoia-Marchetti SM.79 attacked Garissa, as well as two unidentified aircrafts on El Katulo, without consequence [2].

If the SAAF activity is still limited to some reconnaissance flights of No.40 (SAAF) Squadron, some welcome reinforcements arrive in Kenya. If the first two Fairey Battle Mk I (No. 917 and 918) and a Hawker Hurricane (No. 272) are highly appreciated [3], the second are more criticized. Indeed, No.2 (SAAF) Squadron receives six additional Hawker Fury. According to the War Diary :

“Six new ??? Fury are assembled and ready to fly. They must come out of Noah’s ark. The numbers: K5663 (207), K6669 (210), K3733 (208), K3735 (209), K5670 (212) and K5672 (211). They are so old that they still turn to 77 octanes. “[4]

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[1] « 27 august 1940 » 14 Squadron RAF : Operations Record Book (Form 540 and Form 541), op. cit.; M. Napier, Winged Crusaders: The Exploits of 14 Squadron RFC & RAF 1915-45, op. cit.

[2] « 27 august 1940 » 237 Squadron RAF : Operations Record Book (Form 540 and Form 541), op. cit.; « 27 august 1940 » Narrative northern operations SAAF, August 1940, op. cit.

[3] Order No 23, 24 August 19401 Fighter Squadron SAAF, War Dirary, op. cit.

[4] « 27 august 1940 » Ibid.; W. Brent, 85 tears of South African Air Force (1920 – 2005), op. cit., p. 45; A. Crawford et P. Listemann, Hawker Fury, Allied Wings, 2010, p. 43.

June 20, 2020

28 August 1940

Northern Front

Three Vickers Wellesley of No.223 (RAF) Squadron are sent bombing the airfield of Barentu between 05h00 and 09h00. The attack seems a success with several direct hits on hangars. However, Italian air defense is relatively effective as two aircraft (K8526 and K8528) return damaged to Summit (Soudan) and are returned to the rear for repair, reducing the Squadron to only five aircraft [1].

Between 05h30 and 10h30, the French take off for a reconnaissance over Somaliland with the Glenn Marin 167-F No. 102 (Flight Lieutenant Jacques Dodelier, Warrant Officer Yves Trecan, Flying Officer Pierre Fenot de Maismont, Flight Sergeant Emile Lobato de Faria ). During the flight, a Savoia-Marchetti SM.79 was sighted on the Berbera airfield [2].

Southern Front

The day is marked by the great success of No.11 (SAAF) Squadron. Ten Fairey Battle, divided into three formations, are sent to Mogadishu. Once again, the IMAM Ro37bis of the 110 Squadriglia RT try to intervene, but the speed of the Fairey Battle allows them to escape without major damage. A large concentration of vehicles is attacked. If the crews report several shots, the reconnaissance photograph confirms the success of the bombing and at least 800 vehicles appear destroyed. Congratulatory telegrams from London and Pretoria are raining down immediately, and crews are getting a weekend of permission in Nairobi. The truth will, however, be discovered when capturing the city.

According to Major Robert H. Preller :

« The big joke was the collection of vehicules which we had once bombed so splendidly in Squadron formation (…) we had been told to bomb it [in die lug te laat spring !]. Now we saw that it was a collection of ancient derelict vehicles abandoned since the Abyssinian war »[3].

After a long series of monotonous missions, the No.237 (Rhodesia) Squadron knows some excitement when the Hardy K4319 (Flying Officer Stan E. Flett Corporal John Gray) see three Caproni Ca.133 during a reconnaissance above the Tana River. The crew decides to attack bombers, but Italians are lost sight, when approaching Garissa. They attack, shortly after, Buna airfield, with no results around 18:00 [4].

Finally, four Junkers Ju.86 of No.12 (SAAF) Squadron bomb the airfield at Jimma, but poor weather conditions, as well as inaccurate maps, prevent crews from finding the target [5].

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[1] « 28 august 1940 » 223 Squadron RAF : Operations Record Book (Form 540 and Form 541), op. cit.

[2] « 28 august 1940 » 8 Squadron RAF : Operations Record Book (Form 540 and Form 541), op. cit.

[3] « 28 august 1940 » 11 Bomber Squadron SAAF, War Dirary, op. cit.; « 28 august 1940 » Narrative northern operations SAAF, August 1940, op. cit.; J.-A. Brown, A gathering of eagles, the campaigns of the South African Air Force in Italian East Afica (1940 – 1941), op. cit.; Ibid., p. 60 à 61; C. Shores et C. Ricci, Dust Clouds in the Middle East, op. cit., p. 57; J. Sutherland et D. Canwell, Air War East Africa, the RAF versus the Italian Air Force, op. cit., p. 65.

[4] « 28 august 1940 » 237 Squadron RAF : Operations Record Book (Form 540 and Form 541), op. cit.

[5] « 28 august 1940 » 12 Bomber Squadron SAAF, War Dirary, Kew – TNA, AIR 54 / 4.

June 22, 2020

29 August 1940

Northern Front

Six Bristol Blenheim Mk I of No.8 (RAF) Squadron take off, between 06h05 and 09h30, to attack Tandaho (Ethiopia). The first three attack the target at low altitude, while the other three are performing a dive bombing. Several bombs are reported on the buildings housing Italian troops without it being possible to evaluate the results [1].

No.203 (RAF) Squadron receives the reinforcement of three Bristol Blenheim MkIV (T2072 ; T2075 ; T2112) [2] with crews. However, it is surprising to note that while the Squadron is specialized on the MkIVF version, they are configured as bomber [3].

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[1] « 29 august 1940 » 8 Squadron RAF : Operations Record Book (Form 540 and Form 541), op. cit.

[2] « 6 september 1940 » 203 Squadron RAF : Operations Record Book (Form 540 and Form 541), op. cit.

[3] « 29 august 1940 » Ibid.

June 23, 2020

30 August 1940

Northern Front

An Italian bombing on Hayya station is reported at dawn. Again, as on the southern front, these attacks by two or three aircraft are more like nuisance raids [1].

At 05h05, three Vickers Wellesley of No.223 (RAF) Squadron take off from Summit to bomb Agordat airfield, where a Caproni Ca.133 is claimed damaged, then make a reconnaissance around Kassala. Aircrafts return at 09h50 [2].

Finally, in the afternoon, the French make a new reconnaissance, this time over Eritrea (Assab – Dessie) with the Glenn Marin 167-F No. 82 (Flight Lieutenant Roger Ritoux-Lachaud, Flying Officer Pierre Fénot de Maismont; Flight Sergeant Raymond Rolland, Sergeant Portalis) between 13h38 and 17h42.

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1] « 30 august 1940 » 47 Squadron RAF : Operations Record Book (Form 540 and Form 541), op. cit.

[2] There is a slight date problem with this mission. While Form 540 and Shores - Ricci indicates 29 August, Form 541 mentions the next day, a hypothesis supported by the reports of the crews involved, all dated 30 August. C. Shores et C. Ricci, Dust Clouds in the Middle East, op. cit., p. 57; 223 Squadron RAF : Operations Record Book (Form 540 and Form 541), op. cit.

June 24, 2020

31 August 1940

Northern Front

If the last day of the month is relatively calm, the No.14 (RAF) Squadron ORB provides a very interesting document summarizing the action since June 1940. It can be noted that :

« After nearly 3 months operations against Italian East Africa a brief summary of the work carried out will be of interest.

During this period a total of 24 bombing raids have been carried out involving a total flying time of 627 hours. One of these raids was with 9 aircrafts, 12 with 5 and the remainder with 4, 3 and single aircraft. These figures do not include the Convoy and General reconnaissance flyinf carried out by C Flight which specially detailed for this work. This flight escorted three North and South bound convoys most successfully and carried out 257 hours flying during the quarters. During the passage of each convoy most pilots did over 12 hours flying per day. The average duration of each raid was 06h10 and the average load was the maximum permissible all up weight (11 100 lbs) plus an overload of approximetely 1 500 lbs. The total weight of bombs dropped was 43 tons of all types of bombs, the most usual being the 250 lbs bomb. During these operations a total of two raids failed to reach their objectives owing to weather conditions and one failed owing to enemy actions. One airmen was killed, two officers and two airmen were posted as missing and two airmen were wounded. One aircraft forced landed in the sea whilst on convoy duties and its crew were rescued by a destroyer. Two aircraft only were lost over enemy territory. Apart from damaged known to have been done to targets by bombs, one S.81 bomber was shot down, five enemy aircraft are known to have been destroyed on the ground and one fighter has been shot down (confirmed) whilst two further fighters are belived to have been shot or driven down. Damaged done to our own aircraft by A/A and Fighter action amounted to three aircraft damaged beyond repair, nine damaged necessiting major repairs and five damaged necessiting ninor repairs. In spite of the vintage of the aircraft and these losses, the average percentage of serviceavility for the poast quarter has been 76 %. The climate at Port Sudan deserved mention owing to its trying nature. It is hot, humid but healthy (from the point of view of malaria). The average daily temperature at mid-day during July and August has been between 43°C and 48°C in the shade.”[1]

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[1] « Summary» 14 Squadron RAF : Operations Record Book (Form 540 and Form 541), op. cit.

Interior views of a Vickers Wellesley. Source: Imperial War Museum.

June 26, 2020

1st Septembre 1940

Northern Front

The day is mainly marked by a massive raid against the naval base of Assab. The RAF engages all its Bristol Blenheim Squadrons based in Aden. Thus, no less than ten, five and six sorties are performed, respectively by No.8, No.11 and No.39 (RAF) Squadron. The attack is a success as the Italians report the loss of twelve men (and three hundred wounded), as well as significant damage against several naval installations. A bomber is claimed by the DCA, however, no significant loss or damage is mentioned in the British documents [1].

The Vickers Wellesley L2689 (Sergeant Harold N. Norris, Sergeant Bernard M. D’Arcy, Aircraftman Charles D. Lampard) of No.14 (RAF) Squadron disappears early in the morning on a reconnaissance mission over the Island of Harmil, victim of Tenente Luigi Baron, Raimondo Di Pauli and Mario Visintini (412 Squadriglia CT) [2]. According to Sergeant Norris:

« Halfway down the third leg,” reported Norris, “we were attacked by three CR42s. The first burst of 20mm cannon fire hit Lampard in the leg and damaged the engine controls and hydraulics… I had no engine and nowhere to go except down. Ahead was a quite small island, rocky and uneven. I set up a classic forced landing approach, but there was a danger of overshooting into the oggin. With no flaps, we almost stalled over the shoreline and I shoved the port wing and bomb carrier into the rocky ground a quickly came to a rest. Before I could undo my straps and chute, the aircraft was surrounded by an unruly mob of Italians … I left the aircraft and tried to reach the rear gunner’s position but was prevented from doing so. D’Arcy was unable to escape until Lampard had been lifted out and carried away. His leg was almost severed and he was bleeding profusely. »[3]

The latter dies the next day[4].

Aerial photograph of an Italian aerodrome on the island of Harmil. There is a silhouette of a Vickers Wellesley on the first picture. These were taken on September 2nd, 1940 during the searches made by No.14 (RAF) Squadron to find the L2689 shot the day before. Source : Imperial War Museum

Southern Front

No.40 (SAAF) Squadron has a busy day when three Hartbees are sent to patrol the border (Buna – Korindil – Ajao sector) under the command of Captain C.M.S. Gardner. Several concentrations of men and camels are bombed, however two gunners are injured (Air Sergeant Crowther and Petzer), while the three aircraft are slightly damaged.

June 27, 2020

2 Septembre 1940

Northern Front

Following the loss of the previous day, No.14 (RAF) Squadron performs six sorties to search for the missing aircraft. The latter is finally spotted around 18h00 on the island of Harmil, while listening Radio Roma confirms the fate of the captured crew and death of rear gunner Aircraftman Charles D. Lampard.

On the Italian side, several Savoia-Marchetti SM.79 of 44bis Gruppo BT decide to return the favor to the British by targeting the port of Aden [1] where two torpedo boats are very badly damaged [2].

Finally, the No.430 (RAF) Flight joins the advanced ground of Azzoza on the Sudanese border, where is already based a detachment of No.1 (SAAF) Squadron, with three Vickers Vincent and four Gloster Gauntlet [3].

Southern Front

No.11 (SAAF) Squadron has a slight change when Captain Hans H. Borckenhagen is recalled to South Africa, the command of A Flight is temporarily taken by Lieutenant Piet J. Robbertse, while Captain Johan L.V. de Wet occupies that of C Flight.

Captain Johan Louis Venter de Wet, No.11 (SAAF) Squadron. Source : SAAF Museum

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[1] Curiously, the 203 (RAF) Squadron does not mention any attack  : “A.H.Q. received more information an attack by 7 S79’s, scheduled for today. (…) The information must have been wrong, as no attack materialized during the day. 203 Squadron RAF : Operations Record Book (Form 540 and Form 541), op. cit.

[2] C. Shores et C. Ricci, Dust Clouds in the Middle East, op. cit., p. 58; J. Sutherland et D. Canwell, Air War East Africa, the RAF versus the Italian Air Force, op. cit., p. 65.

[3] C. Shores et C. Ricci, Dust Clouds in the Middle East, op. cit., p. 58; Håkan Gustavsson, « Gloster Gauntlet », op. cit

June 29, 2020

3 September 1940

Northern Front

The RAF has more and more difficulty organizing “massive” attacks, except by regrouping all its Squadrons. For example, No.47 (RAF) Squadron aligns only two Vickers Wellesley during a bombing raid on Kassala, where bombs are reported falling on several buildings. However, an additional aircraft (K7729) is flown from Egypt by Flight Lieutenant J. Stewart [1].

Finally, No.8 (RAF) Squadron loses Pilot Officer Derek N. Janes [2], transferred to India [3]. The latter was injured when the Bristol Blenheim Mk I L8506 was severely damaged ,and forced to a forced landing in Djibouti on 11 July 1940, by two Fiat CR.32 of the 410 Squadriglia CT. It is interesting to note that the the crew had, therefore, been authorized by the local French authorities to return to Aden.

Southern Front

After a long break, No.12 (SAAF) Squadron sends three Junkers Ju.86 to bomb Yabelo airfield in southern Ethiopia. The anti-aircraft defense is, however, intense as No. 654 is hit and crashes, killing all of its crew (Lieutenant Robert G. Donaldson[4] ; Warrant Officer Patrick W. Byrnes[5] ; Air Sergeant Cornelius F. Maritz[6] et James V. Penberthy[7] ; Air Gunner Alexander A. Cusens[8], Francois P. du Toit[9] and Air Mechanic I.D. du Plessis[10]).

This is the first losses of the Squadron since its deployment in Kenya [11]. A Fairey Battle of No.11 (SAAF) Squadron is sent shortly thereafter for photographic reconnaissance, confirming the destruction of three Caproni Ca.133 on the airfield [12].

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[1] « 3 septembre 1940 » 47 Squadron RAF : Operations Record Book (Form 540 and Form 541), op. cit.

[2] « Casualty details : Janes, Derek Norman », Commonwealth War Graves Commission http://www.cwgc.org/find-war-dead/casualty/2259494/JANES,%20DEREK%20NORMAN

[3] « 3 septembre 1940 » 8 Squadron RAF : Operations Record Book (Form 540 and Form 541), op. cit.

[4] « Casualty details : Donaldson, Robert Graham », Commonwealth War Graves Commission http://www.cwgc.org/find-war-dead/casualty/2160138/DONALDSON,%20ROBERT%20GRAHAM

[5] « Casualty details : Brynes, Patrick William Westley », Commonwealth War Graves Commission http://www.cwgc.org/find-war-dead/casualty/2160042/BYRNES,%20PATRICK%20WILLIAM%20WESTLEY

[6] « Casualty details : Maritz, Cornelius », Commonwealth War Graves Commission http://www.cwgc.org/find-war-dead/casualty/2160824/MARITZ,%20CORNELIUS

[7] « Casualty details : Penberthy, James Victor », Commonwealth War Graves Commission http://www.cwgc.org/find-war-dead/casualty/2157459/PENBERTHY,%20JAMES%20VICTOR

[8] « Casualty details : Cusens, Alexander Adolphus », Commonwealth War Graves Commission http://www.cwgc.org/find-war-dead/casualty/2160095/CUSENS,%20ALEXANDER%20ADOLPHUS

[9] « Casualty details : Du Toit, Francois Petrius », Commonwealth War Graves Commission http://www.cwgc.org/find-war-dead/casualty/2160151/DU%20TOIT,%20FRANCOIS%20PETRIUS

[10] « Casualty details : Du Plessis, I D », Commonwealth War Graves Commission http://www.cwgc.org/find-war-dead/casualty/2160150/DU%20PLESSIS,%20I%20D

[11] « 3 septembre 1940 et Operation Order No 30 » 12 Bomber Squadron SAAF, War Dirary, op. cit.; W. Brent, 85 tears of South African Air Force (1920 – 2005), op. cit., p. 62; J.-A. Brown, A gathering of eagles, the campaigns of the South African Air Force in Italian East Afica (1940 – 1941), op. cit., p. 64; S. McLean, Squadron of the South African Air Force and their aircraft (1920 – 2005), op. cit., p. 130 à 131; C. Shores et C. Ricci, Dust Clouds in the Middle East, op. cit., p. 58; J. Sutherland et D. Canwell, Air War East Africa, the RAF versus the Italian Air Force, op. cit., p. 65.

[12] « 3 septembre 1940 » Narrative northern operations SAAF, September 1940, Kew – TNA, AIR 54 / 8.

The Junkers Ju 86 No. 641, former ZS-ANI. This aircraft is the only copy of the K-1 version purchased by SAAF. The belly gunner position specific to this version will be quickly adapted to the other Z-5 models. This aircraft, having served with No. 13 (SAAF) Squadron for maritime patrols and join No.12, then to No. 16. He will be lost following an accident to Debra Tabor on 23 September 1941, with No. 5 (SAAF) Coastal Flight. Source : SAAF WW2 Heritage Site – Lawrie Shuttleworth, via Tinus Le Roux.

July 2, 2020

4 September 1940

Northern Front

After several false alarms the day before, several Savoia-Marchetti SM.79 of 44bis Gruppo BT, based in Dire Dawa, attack Aden with some efficiency and the ship SS Velko is damaged, the advanced terrain of Kamaran strafed by eight aircraft, as well as various damage in the harbor. Two Gladiator Glosters: N5757 (Pilot Officer Bartlett) and N5787 (Sergeant Buchanan) of No.94 (RAF) Squadron take off to intercept at least three bombers around noon. If the first can not intervene, Sergeant Buchanan manages to catch an Italian aircraft over Khor Umera. He makes two passes without being able to appreciate the result before being outdistanced. A victory is claimed by the Italian crews, but the two fighters land at their bases. On the other hand, a Savoia-Marchetti SM.79 is slightly damaged [1].

No.8 (RAF) Squadron sends three Bristol Blenheim Mk I to bomb the Aiscia station (near the border with Djibouti) [2]. However, contrary to what is asserted by Shores and Ricci [3], the attack of Kassala envisaged by No.14 (RAF) Squadron is canceled [4].

Southern Front

No.11 (SAAF) Squadron decides to vary its objectives after a long series on Mogadishu and four Fairey Battle Mk I take off from Archer’s Post to bomb the airfield of Baidoa (southern Somalia) around 13h30. Four Caproni Ca.133 are claimed on the ground by the crews (two destroyed and two heavily damaged). Then crews continue on Bardera where the radio station is attacked [5]. At the same time, four other aircraft carry out an armed reconnaissance of the Afmadu – Jelib – Gobwen sector, but without result [6].

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[1] « 4 september 1940 » 94 (RAF) Squadron : Operations Record Book (Form 540 and Form 541), Kew – TNA, AIR 27 / 755; « 4 september 1940 » 203 Squadron RAF : Operations Record Book (Form 540 and Form 541), op. cit.; C. Shores et C. Ricci, Dust Clouds in the Middle East, op. cit., p. 58; J. Sutherland et D. Canwell, Air War East Africa, the RAF versus the Italian Air Force, op. cit., p. 65.

[2] « 4 september 1940 » 8 Squadron RAF : Operations Record Book (Form 540 and Form 541), op. cit.

[3] C. Shores et C. Ricci, Dust Clouds in the Middle East, op. cit., p. 58.

[4] « 4 september 1940 : Three aircraft stood by to bomb Kassala, but the operation was not carried out. » 14 Squadron RAF : Operations Record Book (Form 540 and Form 541), op. cit.

[5] « 4 september 1940 +Operation Instruction No 51 + Operation Order No 18 » 11 Bomber Squadron SAAF, War Dirary, op. cit.; « 4 september 1940 + Operation Order » Narrative northern operations SAAF, September 1940, op. cit.; C. Shores et C. Ricci, Dust Clouds in the Middle East, op. cit., p. 58.

[6] « 4 september 1940 » Narrative northern operations SAAF, September 1940, op. cit.

July 3, 2020

5 September 1940

Northern Front

Following the events of the day before, No.203 (RAF) Squadron is responsible for providing air cover for a maritime convoy accompanied by H.M.A.S. Hobart.

HMAS Hobart – Source : Wikipedia

Around noon, the Blenheim Mk IVF L9042 (Pilot Officer Heslop M.F. Barnitt, Sergeant Albin J. Finch, Leading Aircraftman Blackburn) attack five Savoia-Marchetti SM.79 from the 44bis Gruppo BT. He is, however, quickly hit by the defensive fire of the bombers and forced to break the fight to return after a pursuit of thirty minutes. British ships are attacked three times in the morning, but seem to be unscathed [1]. In the evening, Kamaran’s field is visited by two Italian aircraft [2].

The day before, six Bristol Blenheim Mk I of No.11 and 39 (RAF) Squadron were sent to Perim Island to conduct a raid on Dessie airfield. However, at dawn, the mission is canceled due to a lack of available fuel and the aircraft are diverted to a secondary target: the port of Assab where a 120-mm coastal artillery is destroyed, as well as a stock ammunition [3].

Southern Front

Around 07h00, a IMAM Ro.37bis of 110a Squadriglia RA is reported over the various advanced airfields along the Kenyan border [4].

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[1] « 5 september 1940 » 203 Squadron RAF : Operations Record Book (Form 540 and Form 541), op. cit.; C. Shores et C. Ricci, Dust Clouds in the Middle East, op. cit., p. 58; J. Sutherland et D. Canwell, Air War East Africa, the RAF versus the Italian Air Force, op. cit., p. 65.

[2] « 5 september 1940 » 203 Squadron RAF : Operations Record Book (Form 540 and Form 541), op. cit.

[3] « 5 september 1940 » 11 Squadron RAF : Operations Record Book (Form 540 and Form 541), op. cit.; « 5 september 1940 » 39 Squadron RAF : Operations Record Book (Form 540 and Form 541), op. cit.; C. Shores et C. Ricci, Dust Clouds in the Middle East, op. cit., p. 58.

[4] « 5 september 1940 » Narrative northern operations SAAF, September 1940, op. cit.

July 8, 2020

6 September 1940

Northern Front

Savoia-Marchetti SM.79 of 44bis Gruppo BT are back to attack Aden and convoy BS 31/2. The No.94 (RAF) Squadron’s Gloster Gladiators responded and the N5757 (Sergeant F.E. Hendy) and N5787 (Pilot Officer A. Darling) were able to intercept Italian bombers over Khor Umera around 08h30. Several attacks are made, but the British pilots are not able to appreciate the result. However two Savoia-Marchetti SM.79 are damaged, the first land in emergency in Adigala following a leak of fuel, while the second is reported victim of a tree during landing on the ground of Dire Dawa.[1] A victory will be validated soon after by the RAF, after an Italian aircraft is spotted damaged on the ground in Zeilah. This may be the bomber mentioned above, although the two zones do not match [2].

In any case, this attacks authorizes two observations. It illustrates the reduced results of the RAF air campaign against Eritrea aerodromes. Because of the vastness of the territory, the Italians simply needed to return their aircraft inland to avoid bombing and then redeploy them to the aerodromes in question, when necessary. In addition, the limited resources available do not allow to prohibit their use. It can be noted, thus, that Dire Dawa will not be worried during these days. Conversely, the mediocre results of the Savoia-Marchetti SM.79 and SM.81 prove the extremely reduced danger of a closure of the Red Sea by Italians. More during these few days, Regia Marine will be totally absent. Here again, the issue of available material resources also arises for Regia Aeronautica to prolong nuisances.

-----------------------------------------------

[1] « 6 september 1940 » 94 (RAF) Squadron : Operations Record Book (Form 540 and Form 541), op. cit.; C. Shores et C. Ricci, Dust Clouds in the Middle East, op. cit., p. 58; J. Sutherland et D. Canwell, Air War East Africa, the RAF versus the Italian Air Force, op. cit., p. 65.

[2] « 6 september 1940 : Information was recieved that an S 79 was damaged by our fighters during the raid on Aden, and had forced landed between Assab et Zeilah. (…) This S.79 was later found to have landed at Zeilah. » 203 Squadron RAF : Operations Record Book (Form 540 and Form 541), op. cit.

July 11, 2020

7 September 1940

Northern Front

The No.430 (RAF) Flight is active during this day as a Vickers Vincent (a second is damaged on takeoff) and two Gloster Gauntlet take off from Azzoza, at 11h20, to attack the airfield of Metemma. After the bombardment at 13h05, a Caproni Ca.133 is sighted by Flight Lieutenant A.B. Mitchell (Gloster Gauntlet K5355). The latter immediately attacks the Italian aircraft and damages it seriously, forcing it to a forced landing. In order to destroy it permanently, Flight Lieutenant Mitchell dropp his bombs (two 11 kg incendiary bombs). However, the few Italian documents do not mention any loss of Caproni Ca.133 for this day [1].

Now the issue of Vickers Wellesley becomes a real problem for the No.254 (RAF) Wing. Indeed, losses and maintenance problems become difficult to support for an aircraft that is no longer in production. Two decisions are then made. First, as far as possible, attacks will be made at high altitude and at night. This is the case on 7 September, as three Vickers Wellesley are sent to Massawa between 16h50 and 22h00. Note that the crews report malfunction for the use of the bombsight under these conditions. Then, No.14 (RAF) Squadron will be transformed on Bristol Blenheim (on 14 September), while the Vickers Wellesley still available will be grouped in a common stock for No.47 and No.223 (RAF) Squadron [2].

Southern Front

No.11 (SAAF) Squadron returns to Mogadishu, with four aircraft, to bomb the old vehicles already reported as well as several Caproni Ca.133 of which one is claimed destroyed. Once again at least three IMAM Ro.37bis of 110 Squadriglia RT take off. Lieutenant Corrie van Vliet succeeds in placing himself within six hours of an Italian but his machine gun jams, while Air Sergeant Van Heerden (machine gunner of Captain Johan L.V. de Wet on No. 905) claims one. In any case, the higher speed of Fairey Battle greatly limits the danger of IMAM Ro.37bis [3].

--------------------------------------------------------------

[1] C. Shores et C. Ricci, Dust Clouds in the Middle East, op. cit., p. 58 à 59; J. Sutherland et D. Canwell, Air War East Africa, the RAF versus the Italian Air Force, op. cit., p. 66 ; Håkan Gustavsson, « Gloster Gauntlet », op. cit. ; Håkan Gustavsson, « Flight Lieutenant A. B. Mitchell », Biplane Fighter Aces from the Second World War , http://surfcity.kund.dalnet.se/commonwealth_mitchell.htm

[2] « 7 september 1940 » 14 Squadron RAF : Operations Record Book (Form 540 and Form 541), op. cit.; « 7 september 1940 » 47 Squadron RAF : Operations Record Book (Form 540 and Form 541), op. cit.; « 7 september 1940 » 223 Squadron RAF : Operations Record Book (Form 540 and Form 541), op. cit.; M. Napier, Winged Crusaders: The Exploits of 14 Squadron RFC & RAF 1915-45, op. cit.

[3] « 7 september 1940 Operation Instruction 52 + Operation Order No 20 » 11 Bomber Squadron SAAF, War Dirary, op. cit.; C. Shores et C. Ricci, Dust Clouds in the Middle East, op. cit., p. 59; J. Sutherland et D. Canwell, Air War East Africa, the RAF versus the Italian Air Force, op. cit., p. 66; P.D. Tidy, « Major Cornelius Arthur van Vliet, DFC », op. cit.

July 13, 2020

8 September 1940

Northern Front

On this day, the Escadrille d’Aden suffered a tragedy when the Glenn Marin 167-F n° 82 (Flight Lieutenant Roger Ritoux-Lachaud [1]; Flying Officer Pierre Fenaux de Maismont ; Flight Sergeant Raymond Rolland [2] and Emile Lobato de Faria [3]) is sent on a reconnaissance over the Djibouti – Addis Ababa railway. While the aircraft makes several passes on the airfield of Moggio, it is intercepted and shot down by a Fiat CR.42 of 413a Squadriglia CT (based in Addis Ababa). The Flying Officer Pierre Fenaux de Maismont is the only survivor among the crew [4] (captured, he is initially sentenced to death, as a Partisans, then pardoned by the Duca Amedeo di Savoia-Aosta [5]) [6].

Roger Ritoux-Lachaud. Source : Ordre de la Libération

Pierre Fenaux de Maismont. Source : Ordre de la Libération

The Italians ended the day with an attack on Port Sudan with four bombers around 23h50. One of the jetties of the port is reported slightly damaged [7].

Southern Front

The Italians are also active on the southern front as three Caproni Ca.133 attack the airfield of Garissa around 15h35, however without significant damage.

------------------------------------------------------

[1] « Roger Ritoux-Lachaud », Ordre de la Libération : https://www.ordredelaliberation.fr/fr/compagnons/roger-ritoux-lachaud

[2] http://www.francaislibres.net/liste/fiche.php?index=93904

[3] http://www.francaislibres.net/liste/fiche.php?index=81784

[4] Note that Shores and Ricci indicates, strangely, that only the Flying Officer P.C. Rupert would have managed to jump. However, the name of the latter does not appear anywhere on the equipment of the aircraft on this day, or more generally in the ORB of 8 (RAF)Squadron. C. Shores et C. Ricci, Dust Clouds in the Middle East, op. cit., p. 59.

[5] « Pierre de Maismont », Ordre de la Libération : https://www.ordredelaliberation.fr/fr/compagnons/pierre-maismont-de

[6] « 8 september 1940 » 8 Squadron RAF : Operations Record Book (Form 540 and Form 541), op. cit.; Christian-Jacques Ehrengardt, « Le Glenn Martin 167-F, de la Corne d’Afrique à la pointe de Grave. », Aéro Journal, n^o 39, 2014, p. 6; Y. Morieult, « Les French Flights : des escadrilles françaises au sein de la RAF », op. cit., p. 14.

[7] « 8 september 1940 » 14 Squadron RAF : Operations Record Book (Form 540 and Form 541), op. cit.

July 15, 2020

9 September 1940

Northern Front

After a stop, the night before, at Ras Ara, four Bristol Blenheim of No. 11 and No.39 (RAF) Squadron (one [1] and three) took off at 05h55 to bomb the airfield of Dessie in Ethiopia. They are attacked by two Fiat CR.32 of 411a Squadriglia CT, and the british aircrafts need to quickly drop bombs to escape[2]. Unsurprisingly, the results of the bombing seem to have been negligible [3].

Two other Bristol Blenheims of No.11 (RAF) Squadron take off at the same time from Ras Ara towards Assab to attack the port. Again, without significant results [4].

As in previous days, Port Sudan is visited by four Savoia-Marchetti SM.79 of 44bis Gruppo BT around 11h00. Two Gloster Gladiators of K (RAF) Flight intercept the Italian bombers. However, after a few bursts the leader’s machine guns jammed and the British pilots are forced to break the fight. A Vickers Wellesley is reported to be slightly damaged on the ground following the bombing [5].

Southern Front

After several attacks on Mogadishu, No.11 (SAAF) Squadron is sent to Shashamane airfield in central Ethiopia. Six Fairey Battle, divided into two waves, are sent. An airplane, equipped for aerial photography, is added to the first wave [6]. If the first attack (07h25) is a success with five heavily damaged aircraft claimed on ground, the second (around 12h00) is not enjoying the effect of surprise by the air defense and the Fairey Battle No. 916 is shot down. His crew (Captain R. A. Blackwell, Air Sergeant F.A.S. van Zyl) managed, however, to evacuate the aircraft and was captured. The Italians claim, in addition, four damaged enemy aircraft (two Fairey Battle are reported damaged), while on the ground a Savoia-Marchetti SM.81 is destroyed as well as two Savoia-Marchetti SM.81 and a Caproni Ca.133 are damaged [7].

--------------------------------------------------

[1] If Shores and Ricci indicate the presence of two Blenheims from 11 (RAF) Squadron, the British documents clearly mention only one aircraft. C. Shores et C. Ricci, Dust Clouds in the Middle East, op. cit., p. 5911; En ce sens : « one aircraft accompanied by three of No. 39 Squadron left Ras Ara first light to raid Dessie », « 9 september 1940 » 11 Squadron RAF : Operations Record Book (Form 540 and Form 541), op. cit.; et « on the following morning, only one aircraft of No. 11 Squadron would start », « 9 september 1940 » 39 Squadron RAF : Operations Record Book (Form 540 and Form 541), op. cit.

[2] « As they were approching the ammuniton dum, they were inefectively attacked by two CR.32. This gave the Blenheim very little time to find the target », « 9 september 1940 » 39 Squadron RAF : Operations Record Book (Form 540 and Form 541), op. cit.

[3] « 9 september 1940 » 11 Bomber Squadron SAAF, War Dirary, op. cit.; « 9 september 1940 » 39 Squadron RAF : Operations Record Book (Form 540 and Form 541), op. cit.; C. Shores et C. Ricci, Dust Clouds in the Middle East, op. cit., p. 59.

[4] « 9 september 1940 et Appendix Raid No.97 » 11 Bomber Squadron SAAF, War Dirary, op. cit.

[5] « 9 september 1940 » 14 Squadron RAF : Operations Record Book (Form 540 and Form 541), op. cit.

[6] If Shores and Ricci mention the presence of five Fairey Battle during the second wave, all of the South African documents clearly indicate that the 11 (SAAF) Squadron sends four aircraft for the first wave (No. 907, 919, 913 and 914), one in reserve (No. 912), three for the second wave (Nos. 910, 915 and 916), while one is responsible for transporting the necessary technical personnel to Archer’s Post (No. 911). For the second wave, No. 916 suffering from a motor problem is replaced during the stop at Archer’s Post by the number 912. C. Shores et C. Ricci, Dust Clouds in the Middle East, op. cit., p. 59.

[7] « 9 september 1940, Operation Instruction No.53 et Operation Order No.21 » 11 Bomber Squadron SAAF, War Dirary, op. cit.; « 9 september 1940 et Operation Summary No.92 » Narrative northern operations SAAF, September 1940, op. cit.; W. Brent, 85 tears of South African Air Force (1920 – 2005), op. cit., p. 123 et 126; J.-A. Brown, A gathering of eagles, the campaigns of the South African Air Force in Italian East Afica (1940 – 1941), op. cit., p. 64; S. McLean, Squadron of the South African Air Force and their aircraft (1920 – 2005), op. cit., p. 122; C. Shores et C. Ricci, Dust Clouds in the Middle East, op. cit., p. 59; J. Sutherland et D. Canwell, Air War East Africa, the RAF versus the Italian Air Force, op. cit., p. 66.

July 17, 2020

10 September 1940

Northern Front

During the night, British troops launch an attack on Fort Kassala (Sudan). No. 14 (RAF) Squadron sends, at 11h15, three Vickers Wellesley in support. They are intercepted shortly after by two Fiat CR.42. The Vickers Wellesley K7763 (Pilot Officer James A. Ferguson ; Pilot OfficerJames Lynch [1], Sergeant Thomas Conway [2]) is shot down (only the pilot survived as POW) while a second bomber is claimed. In any case, the bombardment does not seem to have a major effect, as the Italians repel the ground attack shortly after [3].

According to Christopher Shores and Corrado Ricci, on that date, Regia Aeronautica had lost 84 aircraft (all causes), while 143 members were killed and 71 wounded [4].

Southern Front

Following the imminent departure of No. 237 (Rhodesia) Squadron, No. 40 (SAAF) Squadron is ordered to join Garissa. [5]

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[1] « Casualty details : Lynch, James », Commonwealth War Graves Commission : http://www.cwgc.org/find-war-dead/casualty/2272478/LYNCH,%20JAMES

[2] « Casualty details : Conway Thomas », Commonwealth War Graves Commission : http://www.cwgc.org/find-war-dead/casualty/2272334/CONWAY,%20THOMAS

[3] « 10 september 1940 » 14 Squadron RAF : Operations Record Book (Form 540 and Form 541), op. cit.; M. Napier, Winged Crusaders: The Exploits of 14 Squadron RFC & RAF 1915-45, op. cit.; C. Shores et C. Ricci, Dust Clouds in the Middle East, op. cit., p. 59 à 60 ; J. Sutherland et D. Canwell, Air War East Africa, the RAF versus the Italian Air Force, op. cit., p. 66 à 67.

[4] C. Shores et C. Ricci, Dust Clouds in the Middle East, op. cit., p. 60.

[5] « 10 september 1940 » 40 Squadron SAAF, War Diary (November 1939 – January 1941), Kew – TNA, AIR 54/79.

July 23, 2020

11 September 1940

Northern Front

A large-scale operation was organized in Sudan in the evening, bringing together aircraft of No.14, 45, 47 and 223 (RAF) Squadron to target the airfield of Gura. However, the weather conditions are very difficult when the aircraft arrive over the Eritrean mountains. Unable to spot the target, some bombers dropped bombs on different targets in the Massawa sector [1].

From Aden, the French attached to No.8 (RAF) Squadron continue their flights, despite the losses of 8 September, and the Glenn Marin 167-F No. 82 (Flight Lieutenant Jacques Dodelier, Warrant Officer Yves Trecan, Sergeant Ronan Michel, Flight Sergeant Robert Cunibil) is sent over Somaliland for a reconnaissance of the Awah Bridge and airfields of Berbera, Laferug and Zeila, where one Italian fighter is reported on the ground [2].

Robert Cunibil – Source : Ordre de la Libération

--------------------------------------------------------

[1] « 11 september 1940 » 14 Squadron RAF : Operations Record Book (Form 540 and Form 541), op. cit.; « 11 september 1940 » 47 Squadron RAF : Operations Record Book (Form 540 and Form 541), op. cit.; « 11 september 1940 » 223 Squadron RAF : Operations Record Book (Form 540 and Form 541), op. cit.

[2] « 11 september 1940 » 8 Squadron RAF : Operations Record Book (Form 540 and Form 541), op. cit.; Y. Morieult, « Les French Flights : des escadrilles françaises au sein de la RAF », op. cit., p. 14.

July 25, 2020

12 September 1940

Northern Front

Three Bristol Blenheim Mk I of No. 11 (RAF) Squadron are sent to attack the jetties at Assab harbor. Despite strong air defense, crews reports indicate that all bombs have fallen on the target[1].

Southern Front

The day is more active in the south because after a few days’ break for maintenance, SAAF engages all of its bombing forces against Italian airfields.

Four Junkers Ju.86 of No. 12 (SAAF) Squadron are first above the airfield of Jimma, around 08h30, where eleven aircraft are reported on the ground. Nine are claimed destroyed and two others damaged. According to the Italian documents, five Caproni Ca.133 have actually been lost, a shed destroyed, as well as various materials damaged to varying degrees [2].

They are followed by three Fairey Battle of No. 11 (SAAF) Squadron on Shashamane airfield [3]. Again, the crews are able to claim a Savoia-Marchetti SM.81 destroyed and another damaged while a direct hit is reported on the building housing the command. However, they are intercepted by four Fiat CR.32 of 410a and 411a Squadriglia CT. In the ensuing fight, Tenente Alberto Veronese and Sergente Maggiore Athos Tieghi claim the destruction of an enemy aircraft [4]. Indeed, the Fairey Battle No. 911 crashed into flame with his crew (Lieutenant Edward G. Armstrong [5] and Air Sergeant Edward C. Adams. [6]) According to the usual tactics, the Fairey Battle No. 913 take off for a photographic reconnaissance of the target after the attack at 600 meters. Not surprisingly, he is attacked by Italian fighters already on alert and claimed by Maresciallo Alberto Gobbo [7]. The Air Gunner V.P. McVicar and Air Sergeant Louis A. Feinberg are wounded and the aircraft begins to catch fire, when Lieutenant J.E. Lindsay decides to land near the border. The landing is violent as a villager is reported killed on the ground. Italian troops arrive immediately and capture the crew.

-----------------------------------------------

[1] « 12 september 1940 » et « Appendix F serial no. 104 », No. 11 (RAF) Squadron : Operations Record Book (Form 540 and Form 541), Kew – TNA, AIR 27 / 162.

[2] « 12 september 1940 et Operation Order No. 31 », No. 12 (SAAF) Bomber Squadron, War Dirary, Kew – TNA, AIR 54 / 4 ; Shores C. et Ricci C., Dust Clouds in the Middle East, 2^e éd., London, Grub Street, 2010, p. 60.

[3] « 12 september 1940 ; Operation Instruction No. 55 ; Operation Order No. 23 », No. 11 (SAAF) Bomber Squadron, War Dirary, Kew – TNA, AIR 54 / 3 ; Brent W., 85 tears of South African Air Force (1920 – 2005), Nelspruit, Freeworld Publications, coll. « African Aviation Series », 2005, p. 123 et 126 ; Brown J.-A., A gathering of eagles, the campaigns of the South African Air Force in Italian East Afica (1940 – 1941), Cape Town, Purnell, coll. « South African Forces World War II », 1970, p. 64 ; McLean S., Squadron of the South African Air Force and their aircraft (1920 – 2005), Cape Town, auto-édition, 2005, p.162 ; Shores C. et Ricci C., Dust Clouds in the Middle East, 2^e éd., London, Grub Street, 2010, p. 60 ; Sutherland J. et Canwell D., Air War East Africa, the RAF versus the Italian Air Force, Barnsley, Pen & Sword Military, 2009, p. 67 ; Tidy P.D., « Major Cornelius Arthur van Vliet, DFC », Military History Journal, vol. 2, n^o 6, Décembre 1976.

[4] Gustavsson Håkan, « Tenente Alberto Veronese », Biplane Fighter Aces from the Second World War , http://surfcity.kund.dalnet.se/italy_veronese.htm ; Gustavsson Håkan, « Sergente Maggiore Athos Tieghi », Biplane Fighter Aces from the Second World War http://surfcity.kund.dalnet.se/italy_tieghi.htm.

[5] « Casualty details : Armstrong, Edward George », Commonwealth War Graves Commission http://www.cwgc.org/find-war-dead/casualty/2273018/ARMSTRONG,%20EDWARD%20GEORGE

[6] « Casualty details : Adams, Edward Charles », Commonwealth War Graves Commission http://www.cwgc.org/find-war-dead/casualty/2273003/ADAMS,%20EDWARD%20CHARLES

[7] Gobbo Alberto, « Fighting Fairey Battle », The South African Military History Society http://samilitaryhistory.org/vol132ga.html ; « Colonello Alberto Gobbo », Biplane Fighter Aces from the Second World War http://surfcity.kund.dalnet.se/italy_gobbo.htm

July 29, 2020

13 September 1940

Northern Front

Vickers Wellesley are active in Sudan and two aircrafts from each of Squadrons are sent to attack Gura in the evening, between 17h30 and 19h30 [1]. We can, however, question the actual results of these bombardments carried by one aircraft, at medium altitude and at night in unsuitable aircraft, despite claims for the destruction of several fuel reserves. In practice, these attacks are mainly due to the obsolescence of the Wellesley and the lack of spare parts preventing the three Squadron from being able to operate in big formation. It is no coincidence that No. 14 (RAF) Squadron is being progressively transformed on Bristol Blenheim, and the Wellesley are grouped together in a common pool.

Southern Front

During a reconnaissance sortie, a IMAM Ro.37bis of 110a Squadriglia RT, based in Mogadishu, reported the presence of a warship off the coast of Italian Somaliland. Two Caproni Ca.133, escorted by a IMAM Ro.37bis, are immediately dispatched to eliminate the threat, which turns out to be the light cruiser HMS Ceres. The attack is repeated in the afternoon twice, crews claiming damaged on the boat (stern). This is not confirmed by the British documents which mention that only two bombs fell nearby, throwing splinters on the bridge [2].

HMS Ceres. Source : Wikipedia – The Free Encyclopedia.

August 1, 2020

14 September 1940

Northern Front

Vickers Wellesley continue to attack the airfield of Gura between 19h00 and 00h00, with five aircrafts of No. 14 (RAF) Squadron (only two on the target), three of No.47 (RAF) Squadron (one on Massawa) and five of No. 223 (RAF) Squadron (one is forced to cancel due to technical problems and another attack Adi Ugri). Again, several hits on the fuel reserves are reported, albeit with reduced efficiency according to the crews. Italian documentation reports one Caproni Ca.133 and two Savoia-Marchetti SM.79 damaged [1].

No.39 (RAF) Squadron is sending three aircraft at 17h00 on Aden Harbor as part of an interception exercise by Gloster Gladiator of No.94 (RAF) Squadron. The activity of this last unit is, for several months, constituted by a long series of patrols to ensure the protection of the harbor and the maritime convoys, as well as many takeoff on alert without results [2].

Southern Front

Three Caproni Ca.133 of 49bis Gruppo, based in Jimma, make an attack on a fort near Buna, one of the bombers is slightly damaged by machine gun fire from the ground[3].

1] « 14 september 1940 », No. 14 (RAF) Squadron : Operations Record Book (Form 540 and Form 541), Kew – TNA, AIR 27 / 192 ; « 14 september 1940 », No. 47 (RAF) Squadron  : Operations Record Book (Form 540 and Form 541), Kew – TNA, AIR 27 / 463 ; « 14 september 1940 », No. 223 (RAF) Squadron : Operations Record Book (Form 540 and Form 541), Kew – TNA, AIR 27 / 1374 ; Shores C. et Ricci C., Dust Clouds in the Middle East, 2^e éd., London, Grub Street, 2010, p. 61.

[2] « 14 september 1940 », No. 39 (RAF) Squadron : Operations Record Book (Form 540 and Form 541), Kew – TNA, AIR 27 / 407 ; « 14 september 1940 », No. 94 (RAF) Squadron : Operations Record Book (Form 540 and Form 541), Kew – TNA, AIR 27 / 755.

[3] Shores C. et Ricci C., Dust Clouds in the Middle East, 2^e éd., London, Grub Street, 2010, p.61 ; Sutherland J. et Canwell D., Air War East Africa, the RAF versus the Italian Air Force, Barnsley, Pen & Sword Military, 2009, p.67.

August 3, 2020

15 September 1940

Northern Front

No.94 (RAF) Squadron knows a bit of action when Squadron Leader William T.F. Wightman (L9047) takes off at 12h25 for the usual patrol over the port of Aden. At 13h25, he receives order to go to Steamer Point where an unidentified aircraft is reported. The latter turns to be a Savoia-Marchetti SM.79 and Squadron Leader William T.F. Wightman attacks immediately, firing several bursts from behind. He loses however quickly the bomber and must land at 13h40. Two more Gladiators take off immediately: Sergeant F. E. Hendy (N5787) and Gerald D.F. Herrtage (N5757) but they fail to locate the Italian bomber and return after twenty-five minutes of flight [1].

Southern Front

No. 40 (SAAF) Squadron receives some reinforcements with six new Hartbees (No. 818, 819, 824, 826, 841 and 862) [2].

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[1] « 15 september 1940 et Report No.40 », No. 94 (RAF) Squadron : Operations Record Book (Form 540 and Form 541), Kew – TNA, AIR 27 / 755.

[2] « 15 september 1940 », No.40 (SAAF) Squadron, War Diary (November 1939 – January 1941), Kew – TNA, AIR 54/79.

August 8, 2020

16 September 1940

Northern Front

After a day of rest, Vickers Wellesley take off for further night attacks. Three aircrafts of No.47 (RAF) Squadron are sent to Asmara between 15h30 and 20h20. They are followed by three more of No.223 (RAF) Squadron and No.14 (RAF) Squadron on Gura, between 19h45 and 02h00. However, the weather conditions (low cloud and thunderstorms) prevent the aircraft from properly conducting the bombing, and all must fall back on various secondary targets without result. Vickers Wellesley L2664 (Pilot Officer Grahame E. Walker [1], Sergeant Humphrey L.S. Price [2]) of No.223 (RAF) Squadron does not return, victim of anti-aircraft or weather conditions [3].

Southern Front

Caproni Ca.133 of 9a Squadriglia BT (25bis Gruppo BT), based in Baidoa (west Mogadishu) are transferred to the new secret airfield of Vittorio d’Africa (near Merca, south coast of Somalia) [4].

Three Junkers Ju.86 of No.12 (SAAF) Squadron take off from Mombasa to bombard an airfield near the Birikau River (Somalia), discovered by Hartbees of No.40 (SAAF) Squadron. The attack is conducted in dive-bombing and allows the destruction of several buildings. However, no enemy aircraft are present at the time of the attack[5].

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------

[1] « Casualty details : Walker, Grahame Edmund », Commonwealth War Graves Commission http://www.cwgc.org/find-war-dead/casualty/1282926/WALKER,%20GRAHAME%20EDMUND

[2] « Casualty details : Price, Humphrey Lawrence Stewart », Commonwealth War Graves Commission http://www.cwgc.org/find-war-dead/casualty/1282259/PRICE,%20HUMPHREY%20LAWRENCE%20STEWART

[3] « 16 september 1940 », No. 14 (RAF) Squadron : Operations Record Book (Form 540 and Form 541), Kew – TNA, AIR 27 / 192 ; « 16 september 1940 », No. 47 (RAF) Squadron  : Operations Record Book (Form 540 and Form 541), Kew – TNA, AIR 27 / 463 ; « 16 september 1940 », No. 223 (RAF) Squadron : Operations Record Book (Form 540 and Form 541), Kew – TNA, AIR 27 / 1374 ; Shores C. et Ricci C., Dust Clouds in the Middle East, 2^e éd., London, Grub Street, 2010, p.61 ; Sutherland J. et Canwell D., Air War East Africa, the RAF versus the Italian Air Force, Barnsley, Pen & Sword Military, 2009, p.67.

[4] Dunning Chris, Courage Alone, The Italian Air Force (1940 – 1943), Leicester, Hikoki Publications, 1998, p.57 ; Shores C. et Ricci C., Dust Clouds in the Middle East, 2^e éd., London, Grub Street, 2010, p.61.

[5] « 16 september 1940 », Narrative northern operations SAAF, September 1940, Kew – TNA, AIR 54 / 8.

August 12, 2020

17 September 1940

Northern Front

The French attached to No.8 (RAF) Squadron continue their flights with the Glenn Martin 167-F No. 102 (Flight Lieutenant Jacques Dodelier, Warrant Officer Yves Trecan, Sergeant Joseph Portalis, Flight Sergeant Yves Michel) and makes a reconnaissance of the sector Banda Kasim – Banda Alula (north east of Somalia) [1].

At the same time, a combined attack ofDire Dawa airfield takes place at dawn, around 05h00, with a Bristol Blenheim Mk I of No.8 (RAF) Squadron, three of No.11 (RAF) Squadron and one of No.39 (RAF) Squadron. The bombing is considered a success with several shots on target against the hangar of Ala Littoria on the airfield [2].

Southern Front

It is difficult to describe the activity of No.40 (SAAF) Squadron, which is probably the most active unit, but almost all flights are patrols often without incident or simply dropping one or two bombs on potential concentrations of regular or irregular troops. For example, on this day a Hartbees (Lieutenant C. T. Tilburn, Air Gunner Jackson), of B Flight, is sent on patrol over El-Wak where a position of machine gun is attacked on the road leading to the fort. Ten 40lb bombs are dropped, while the aircraft is slightly damaged by shots from the ground [3].

------------------------------------

[1] « 17 september 1940 », No. 8 (RAF) Squadron : Operations Record Book (Form 540 and Form 541), Kew – TNA, AIR 27 / 114.

[2] « 17 september 1940 », No. 8 (RAF) Squadron : Operations Record Book (Form 540 and Form 541), Kew – TNA, AIR 27 / 114 ; « 17 september 1940 », No. 11 (RAF) Squadron : Operations Record Book (Form 540 and Form 541) ; « 17 september 1940 », No. 39 (RAF) Squadron : Operations Record Book (Form 540 and Form 541), Kew – TNA, AIR 27 / 407.

[3] « 17 september 1940 », Narrative northern operations SAAF, September 1940, Kew – TNA, AIR 54 / 8 ; No.40 (SAAF) Squadron, Repport on recce sorties, juillet – decembre 1940, Kew – TNA, AIR 54 / 5.

August 18, 2020

18 September 1940

Northern Front

Following reports of troop concentrations near Kassala, three Vickers Wellesley of No. 47 (RAF) Squadron took off at 03h30 for a bombing. All the bombs fall on the target, but the crews note the absence of Italian troops on the target[1].

They are followed by three other aircraft of No.223 (RAF) Squadron at 08h30. Again, the bombs hit the target (although many fall on the village). A very strong anti-aircraft defense, more precise than usual, is reported[2].

In the afternoon, Gloster Gladiator of No. 1 (SAAF) Squadron are on action when three aircrafts patrolled between 14h50 and 17h15 hours above Kassala. They see and attack two Fiat CR.42 during which, one of the Italian fighter is seen spinning, while the second is forced to a crashed-landing on the ground of Tessenei (south-western border of Eritrea). A victory is claimed by Major Schalk van Schalkwyk, while the second is shared by Lieutenant Johan J. Coetzer and John L. Hewitson (N5852)[3].

Note that this event poses some problems. Indeed due to lack of a War Diary during this period for No.1 (SAAF) Squadron, it is appropriate to rely on secondary sources or compile after the facts. Thus, in the present case, the Italian documentation does not indicate any such confrontation[4], even if the latter is also incomplete, while in the semi-official history of the SAAF, James A. Brown mentions the date of 1st September[5]. This difference is also present in a summary of activity between August and November 1940, written by Major Andrew Duncan. This document of two pages is, nevertheless, written during 1941 and includes several errors. It can be noted, however, that John L. Hewitson’s logbook accurately describes this combat on 18 September.

Logbook of Lieutenant John L. Hewitson on 18 September 1940.

From Aden, the RAF is very active on Dire Dawa with an attack by four Bristol Blenheim Mk I of No.8 (RAF) Squadron, four others of No.11 (RAF) Squadron, as well as two of No.39 aircraft (RAF) Squadron, between 02h15 and 06h15. Several bombs fall on the station, the buildings housing the personnel on the airfield and the hangar of Ala Littoria[6].

Southern Front

Following the losses of 12 September, the SAAF decided to change its mode of operation by attacking, this time at dawn, thanks to the light of the full moon.

Thus, three Fairey Battle of No.11 (SAAF) Squadron leave Archers Post at 17h00, to reach the Habaswein forward ground. They leave at 01h30 to attack, at 05h00, Mogadishu airfield with several low passages for twenty minutes, damaging hangars and the runway, despite a very strong anti-aircraft defense. Note that unlike previous operations, subsequent photo recognition is not planned.

On their side, two Junkers Ju.86 of No.12 (SAAF) Squadron bomb the Yabelo airfield. One Caproni Ca.133 is claimed damaged[7].

Finally, at the same time, an instruction is sent by Lieutenant-Colonel Stephen Melville, Commander of the 1st (SAAF) Bomber Brigade. Priority must be given to the security of the aircraft and not to the results of the attacks. Crews are therefore encouraged to stop showing:

« Of an intense vigor in the course of the missions (…), the return of all planes must be sought, by all the means, and constitute the first objective of the commander».

This demand promptly provokes criticism within South African units, the No.12 War Diary (SAAF) Squadron mentioning that the fact of :

« No longer able to take the slightest risk during the attacks causes great disappointment in the Squadron (…), having in mind the importance of aircraft safety, this instruction has greatly reduced the morale of crews ».

Finally, the instruction is withdrawn at the end of October by the Air Headquarters East Africa[8].

------------------------------------------------------------

[1] « 18 september 1940 », No. 47 (RAF) Squadron  : Operations Record Book (Form 540 and Form 541), Kew – TNA, AIR 27 / 463. This mission poses a slight problem in the documents. The Form 340 lists two aircraft sent on the 18th, while the Form 341 lists three Wellesleys for the 19th. Finally, the Reconnaissance Report of Squadron Leader James E. Pelly-Fry indicates 18 September with the list of three crews and the identifications of three Wellesleys.

[2] « 18 september 1940 », No. 223 (RAF) Squadron : Operations Record Book (Form 540 and Form 541), Kew – TNA, AIR 27 / 1374.

[3] McLean S., Squadron of the South African Air Force and their aircraft (1920 – 2005), Cape Town, auto-édition, 2005, p.4 ; Schoeman M., Springbok Fighter Victory, SAAF Fighter operations, East Afica (1940 – 1941), Nelspruit, Freeworld Publications, coll. « African Aviation Series », 2002, p. 41 et 135.

[4] Gustavsson H. et Slongo L., Gladiator vs CR.42 Falco (1940 – 1941), Oxford, Osprey Publishing, 2012, p.57.

[5] Brown J.-A., A gathering of eagles, the campaigns of the South African Air Force in Italian East Afica (1940 – 1941), Cape Town, Purnell, coll. « South African Forces World War II », 1970, p.54.

[6] « 18 september 1940 », No. 8 (RAF) Squadron : Operations Record Book (Form 540 and Form 541), Kew – TNA, AIR 27 / 114 ; « 18 september 1940 », No. 11 (RAF) Squadron : Operations Record Book (Form 540 and Form 541), Kew – TNA, AIR 27 / 162 ; « 18 september 1940 », No. 39 (RAF) Squadron : Operations Record Book (Form 540 and Form 541), Kew – TNA, AIR 27 / 407.

[7] « 18 september 1940 », Narrative northern operations SAAF, September 1940, Kew – TNA, AIR 54 / 8 ; « 18 september 1940 ; Operation Instruction n°61 ; Operation Order n°26 », No. 11 (SAAF) Bomber Squadron, War Dirary, Kew – TNA, AIR 54 / 3 ; « 18 september 1940 ; Operation Order n°35 », No. 12 (SAAF) Bomber Squadron, War Dirary, Kew – TNA, AIR 54 / 4.

[8] Narrative northern operations SAAF, September et October 1940, Kew – TNA, AIR 54 / 8 ; Brown J.-A., A gathering of eagles, the campaigns of the South African Air Force in Italian East Afica (1940 – 1941), Cape Town, Purnell, coll. « South African Forces World War II », 1970, p.65.

August 20, 2020

19 September 1940

Northern Front

The Bristol Blenheims return, again, to Dire Dawa with two aircrafts of No.8 (RAF) Squadron, two of No.11 (RAF) Squadron and two of No.39 (RAF) Squadron. The bombardment is done between 01h30 and 06h35 and specifically aims the hangar of Ala Littoria.[1]

On their side, the Italians send five Savoia-Marchetti SM.79 to attack the naval convoy B.N.5 in the Red Sea.[2] Two Gloster Gladiators: N2289 (Pilot Officer Stephenson) and N5778 (Pilot Officer Thomas W. Gudgeon) of No.94 (RAF) Squadron take off at 10h35 to intercept enemy aircraft south of Aden, but they do not see nothing and return after fifteen minutes of flight. The Gloster Gladiator of No.94 (RAF) Squadron and Bristol Blenheim Mk IVF of No.203 (RAF) Squadron patrol all day above the ships without reporting any particular incidents.[3]

----------------------------------

[1] « 19 september 1940 », No. 8 (RAF) Squadron : Operations Record Book (Form 540 and Form 541), Kew – TNA, AIR 27 / 114 ; « 19 september 1940 », No. 39 (RAF) Squadron : Operations Record Book (Form 540 and Form 541), Kew – TNA, AIR 27 / 407 ; « 19 september 1940 »,No. 11 (RAF) Squadron : Operations Record Book (Form 540 and Form 541), Kew – TNA, AIR 27 / 162.

[2] Shores C. et Ricci C., Dust Clouds in the Middle East, 2^e éd., London, Grub Street, 2010, p.61 ; Sutherland J. et Canwell D., Air War East Africa, the RAF versus the Italian Air Force, Barnsley, Pen & Sword Military, 2009, 192 p.

[3] « 19 september 1940 », No. 94 (RAF) Squadron : Operations Record Book (Form 540 and Form 541), Kew – TNA, AIR 27 / 755 ; « 19 september 1940 », No. 203 (RAF) Squadron : Operations Record Book (Form 540 and Form 541), Kew – TNA, AIR 27 / 1198.

August 22, 2020

20 September 1940

Northern Front

After being announced for several weeks, the first three Blenheim Mk IV were delivered to No.14 (RAF) Squadron on 14 September 1940 at Port Sudan.

These three Bristol Blenheim Mk IV (R3899, T2057 and T2061) of No.14 (RAF) Squadron come into action during a bombardment on Massawa between 11h35 and 15h35. The objective is to search a advanced airfield used by Italian bombers to attack maritime convoys in the Red Sea.

The mission unfolds pretty badly as it is, at first, impossible to fix the bombs at T2057 (Lieutenant Flight Norman G. Birks, Sergeant J.P. Gillespie and James L.B. Cheyne). The crew decides, nevertheless, to take off with a camera to observe the result of the attack. Arrived above the target, the Blenheim is hit by the anti-aircraft defense at the left engine and the pilot is forced to a crashed-landing north of the city. The entire crew is captured by the Italians. Sergeant James L.B. Cheyne is probably seriously injured in the action as he dies five days later due to his injuries. [1]

Sergeant James Linklater Birnie Cheyne. Source : Cheyne WebSite – http://sites.rootsweb.com/~cheyne/p18926.htm

The Vickers Wellesley continue to be used, however, and two of them are sent to Gura overnight.[2]

A combined attack by No.1 (SAAF) Squadron and No.430 (RAF) Flight is reported at Tessenei airfield. A Caproni Ca.133 is mentioned as destroyed on the ground[3]. Note that the event is reported to have taken place the next day in several South African sources.[4]

For their part, the Italians are not inactive and the convoy B.N.5 is attacked by several Savoia-Marchetti SM.79 and a ship is reported damaged in the British documents. The No.203 (RAF) Squadron receives, then, the order to make an aerial cover of ships from 13h45.[5]

------------------------------------------

[1] Casualty details : Cheyne, James Linklater Birnie, Commonwealth War Graves Commission : http://www.cwgc.org/find-war-dead/casualty/2272043/CHEYNE,%20JAMES%20LINKLATER%20BIRNIE

[2] NAPIER M. Winged Crusaders : The Exploits of 14 Squadron RFC & RAF 1915 – 1945. Barnsley : Pen & Sword, 2013 ; SHORES C., RICCI C. « East Africa ». In : Dust Clouds in the Middle East – The Air War for East Africa, Iraq, Syria, Iran and Madagascar, 1940 – 1942. London : Grub Street, 2010. p. 308 ; No. 14 (RAF) Squadron : Operations Record Book (Form 540 and Form 541). Kew : TNA, AIR 27 / 192.

[3] SCHOEMAN M. Springbok Fighter Victory – Volume 1 : East Africa (1940 – 1941). Nelspruit : Freeworld Publications, [s.d.]. p. 41 ; SHORES C., RICCI C. « East Africa ». In : Dust Clouds in the Middle East – The Air War for East Africa, Iraq, Syria, Iran and Madagascar, 1940 – 1942. London : Grub Street, 2010. p. 61 ; SUTHERLAND J., CANWELL D. Air War East Africa 1940 – 1941. The RAF versus the Italian Air Force. Barnsley : Pen & Sword, 2009. p.67 ; GUSTAVSSON H. « Flight Lieutenant A. B. Mitchell ». In : Biplane Fighter Aces from the Second World War : http://surfcity.kund.dalnet.se/commonwealth_mitchell.htm ; GUSTAVSSON H. « Gloster Gauntlet ». In : Biplane Fighter Aces from the Second World War : http://surfcity.kund.dalnet.se/gauntlet.htm

[4] MCLEAN S. Squadrons of the South African Air Force and their aircraft (1920 – 2005). Cape Town : [s.n.], 2005. p.4 ; SCHOEMAN M. Springbok Fighter Victory – Volume 1 : East Africa (1940 – 1941). Nelspruit : Freeworld Publications, [s.d.], p. 135.

[5] SHORES C., RICCI C. « East Africa ». In : Dust Clouds in the Middle East – The Air War for East Africa, Iraq, Syria, Iran and Madagascar, 1940 – 1942. London : Grub Street, 2010. p. 61 ; SUTHERLAND J., CANWELL D. Air War East Africa 1940 – 1941. The RAF versus the Italian Air Force. Barnsley : Pen & Sword, 2009. p.67 ; No. 203 (RAF) Squadron : Operations Record Book (Form 540 and Form 541). Kew : TNA, AIR 27 / 1198.

August 24, 2020

If a few people are interested. I have just self-published the first volume of my Chronicle on Air Operations over East Africa. Volume 1: June - December 1940.

Please note that the book is currently only in French.

I hope to be able to propose an English version… Unfortunately this involves translation and my bad English writing is a problem. I hope to find a solution but it’s complicated. So I can’t make any promises about an English version).

The East Africa Campaign is one of those events of the Second World War, now partially forgotten.

The aim of this series is to provide a Chronicle of air operations over the Horn of Africa between 1940 and 1941, as detailed as possible and up to date with new research.

Three volumes will be needed to deal with these events.

This first volume covers the period between June and December 1940 during which Italy launched a series of offensives to ensure the defence of its Empire, while the British and South Africans sought to strengthen for a future offensive.

The actions of the various belligerents (RAF, SAAF, Regia Aeronautica) are dealt with, often on a daily basis, with a maximum of precision based on the available archives and various publications, both old and recent.

The book contains 227 pages, 200 photos, five maps, as well as a detailed list of the losses and claims of the various belligerents.

35 euros.
Format: 21.59 cm x 27.94 cm.
Soft cover.

Available on Amazon

Here you can find a short presentation of the book with a few pages : https://aviationaoi.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/presentation_AOI_vol1.pdf

And the link to my website : https://aviationaoi.com/en/combat-over-the-horn-of-africa-vol-1-june-december-1940/

August 26, 2020

21 September 1940

Northern Front

During a nighttime bombardment of Gura and Asmara, the Vickers Wellesley K8530 (Flight Sergeant Bathe; Sergeant Naismith) was intercepted, around 11h36, northeast of Massawa. A short confrontation ensued for four minutes between the bomber and two aircraft identified by the crew as Fiat CR.42[1].

Southern Front

Following SAAF’s recent bombardments, Regia Aeronautica decided to react by deploying three Savoia-Marchetti SM.79 of 44bis Gruppo BT to Yabelo. They attacks Archers Post at 7h30 where four Gloster Gladiators of No.2 (SAAF) Squadron (Flight Lieutenant Robert S. Blake, Lieutenant Adrian M. Colenbrander, Pieter de Jager Fritz [2] and Basil Guest) take off to intercept them. During the fight, the N5851 (Lieutenant Adrian M. Colenbrander) is slightly damaged but the bombing is a failure.[3]

A Gloster Gladiator of No.2 (SAAF) Squadron being prepared, on one of the advanced airfield of the Kenyan border. Collection : SAAF Museum, via Tinus le Roux.

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[1] This event was reported on the night of 20 September by Christopher Shores : SHORES C., RICCI C. « East Africa ». In : Dust Clouds in the Middle East – The Air War for East Africa, Iraq, Syria, Iran and Madagascar, 1940 – 1942. London : Grub Street, 2010. p.61. However, the night of 21 September appears clearly on reading the ORB of No.223 (RAF) Squadron, as well as in the mission report written by Flight Sergeant Bathe : No.223 (RAF) Squadron : Operations Record Book (Form 540 and Form 541). Kiew : TNA, AIR 27 / 1374.

[2] Note that the presence of this pilot, during the interception, does not appear clearly on reading the various South African documents. The Gladiator could therefore be only three.

[3] No.2 (SAAF) Squadron : War Diary. Kew : TNA, AIR/54/1 ; September – Narrative Norther Operations SAAF. Kew : TNA, AIR/54/8 ; DUNNING C. Courage Alone, The Italian Air Force 1940 – 1943. Aldershot : Hikoki Publications, 1998. p. 70 ; SHORES C., RICCI C. « East Africa ». In : Dust Clouds in the Middle East – The Air War for East Africa, Iraq, Syria, Iran and Madagascar, 1940 – 1942. London : Grub Street, 2010. p. 61 ; SUTHERLAND J., CANWELL D. Air War East Africa 1940 – 1941. The RAF versus the Italian Air Force. Barnsley : Pen & Sword, 2009. p. 67.

August 28, 2020

22 September 1940

Northern Front

The end of September is marked by the gradual deployment of Major-General Lewis Heath’s 5th Indian Division in Sudan. Thus, a first detachment of two Gladiator Gladiators of No.1 (SAAF) Squadron (including Lieutenant Robin Pare) is sent to Atbara (midway along the road from Port Sudan to Khartoum), while four other aircraft under the command of Captain Brian J.L. Boyle join Port Sudan to support K (RAF) Flight. The rest of the squadron remains deployed at Khartoum. The presence at Port Sudan is short-lived as Captain Brian J. L. Boyle is moved with six Gladiator Gladiators to the advanced ground of Azaza near the border. According to crews, the living conditions are difficult: food (water, fuel) is provided by a single Ford truck rented to a local. Ground personnel are kept to a minimum, pilots must hand-fill ammunition band by hand, while the cook’s job is performed by a mechanic.[1]

Second Lieutenant Lieutenant Andrew Duncan, Captain Brian J.L. Boyle and Lieutenant Servaas de Kock Viljoen (L – R) in front of a Gloster Gladiator of No.1 (SAAF) Squadron at Azaza. Collection : Brendan Boyle via Tinus le Roux.

The ferry on the Nile connecting Atbara to Khartoum. Collection : Brendan Boyle via Tinus le Roux.

Atbara. Collection : Brendan Boyle via Tinus le Roux.

Captain Brian J.L. Boyle at Atbara. We note the parachute hanging on the left. Collection : Brendan Boyle via Tinus le Roux.

Captain Brian J.L. Boyle enjoying a break at Atbara. Collection : Brendan Boyle via Tinus le Roux.

Same for Lieutenant Robin Pare. Collection : Brendan Boyle via Tinus le Roux.

At the same time, Regia Aeronautica is carrying out a series of attacks against infrastructure in Sudan. Thus, two Savoia-Marchetti SM.79 are reported above Port Sudan at 12h45. The bombs do not cause significant damage, and two Gloster Gladiator of the K (RAF) Flight, including the K6135 (Pilot Officer Geoffrey B. Smither), take off to intercept them, without result. [2]

If the Italians try to intervene, with several raids by Savoia-Marchetti SM.79 during the day and Savoia-Marchetti SM.81 at night, these sporadic bombings, limited to two or three planes, have only a minor impact on the maritime convoys and the disembarkation of the troops. According to the Generale di Squadra Aerea Giuseppe Santoro :

« Powerful attacks would have seemed particularly opportune against Port Sudan… where enormous quantities of supplies had been observed at the docks and at the station… forceful attacks would have been able to inflict serious material damage and shake the morale of the tremendous influx of troop. But…»[3]

Despite the new Bristol Blenheims, the Vickers Wellesley continue to be used by No.14 (RAF) Squadron and three of them are sent to the airfield of Mai Edaga at night (between 23h30 and 01h10) where two Fiat CR.42 are claimed destroyed and three bombers damaged by the K7725 (Pilot Officer Thomas Rhodes).[4] They are joined by three other aircraft of No.223 (RAF) Squadron. In addition to the results mentioned, many damages are caused on the airfield where several fire starts are reported, particularly on the ammunition depot. The crew reports indicate a bombardment with “extraordinary success”.[5] Note that many Vickers Wellesley are employed during the day to patrol the harbor.

Illustration of a bombing by Vickers Wellesley of the No.223 (RAF) Squadron, in this case on the Eritrean airfield of Mai Edaga. For lack of a precise date, it could be the mission of 22 September 1940. Collection : Imperial War Museum.

Southern Front

The No.11 (SAAF) Squadron resume its attacks by sending three Fairey Battles to Shashamane airfield. If one of the planes is forced to return to base due to an engine problem, the other two can bomb the target where they drop their bombs on a concentration of Savoia-Marchetti SM.79. If the crews are unable to observe the results, photo reconnaissance confirms the destruction of two Italian bombers. On the return flight, the crews reported the discovery of advanced terrain at Dalle with at least two aircraft on the ground, as well as a hangar.[6]

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[1] In the absence of precise archives, it is difficult to give the exact dates of the various movements. MCLEAN S. Squadrons of the South African Air Force and their aircraft (1920 – 2005). Cape Town : [s.n.], 2005. p. 4 ; SCHOEMAN M. Springbok Fighter Victory – Volume 1 : East Africa (1940 – 1941). Nelspruit : Freeworld Publications, [s.d.]. p. 42 et 43 ; SHORES C., RICCI C. « East Africa ». In : Dust Clouds in the Middle East – The Air War for East Africa, Iraq, Syria, Iran and Madagascar, 1940 – 1942. London : Grub Street, 2010. p. 62.

[2] No. 14 (RAF) Squadron : Operations Record Book (Form 540 and Form 541). Kew : TNA, AIR 27 / 192 ; « K Flight ». In : Shark Squadron : RAF 112 Sqn Tribute Website [En Ligne]. http://raf-112-squadron.org/k_flight.html

[3] BROWN J. A. A gathering of Eagles, the campaigns of the South African Air Force in Italian East Africa 1940 – 1941. Cape Town : Purnell, 1970. p. 54 et 55.

[4] No. 14 (RAF) Squadron : Operations Record Book (Form 540 and Form 541). Kew : TNA, AIR 27 / 192 ; NAPIER M. Winged Crusaders : The Exploits of 14 Squadron RFC & RAF 1915 – 1945. Barnsley : Pen & Sword, 2013 ; SHORES C., RICCI C. « East Africa ». In : Dust Clouds in the Middle East – The Air War for East Africa, Iraq, Syria, Iran and Madagascar, 1940 – 1942. London : Grub Street, 2010. p. 62.

[5] No.223 (RAF) Squadron : Operations Record Book (Form 540 and Form 541). Kew : TNA, AIR 27 / 1374.

[6] No.11 (SAAF) Squadron : War Diary. Kew : TNA, AIR/54/3 ; September – Narrative Norther Operations SAAF. Kew : TNA, AIR/54/8.

September 1, 2020

23 September 1940

Southern Front

According to South African archives, an Italian bomber attacks and drops three bombs on the airfield of Wajir at dawn (01h45). Unfortunately, without further details.

At the same time, two or three Caproni Ca.133 (31 bis Gruppo BT ?) are reported over Buna where a soldier is killed, as well as two others injured[1].

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[1] September – Narrative Norther Operations SAAF. Kew : TNA, AIR/54/8.

September 4, 2020

24 September 1940

Northern Front

An attack by Savoia-Marchetti SM.79 is reported on Aden at 12h45 when a fight broke out between an Italian bomber and a Gloster Gladiator of No.94 (RAF) Squadron. This is claimed by the Italians, but Pilot Officer Frank M. Stephenson lands unscathed with his Gloster Gladiator Mk I N2283 [1].

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[1] No.94 (RAF) Squadron : Operations Record Book (Form 540 and Form 541). Kew : TNA, AIR 27 / 775 ; No.94 (RAF) Squadron : Appendices. Kew : TNA, AIR 27 / 758 ; SHORES C., RICCI C. « East Africa ». In : Dust Clouds in the Middle East – The Air War for East Africa, Iraq, Syria, Iran and Madagascar, 1940 – 1942. London : Grub Street, 2010. p. 62 ; SUTHERLAND J., CANWELL D. Air War East Africa 1940 – 1941. The RAF versus the Italian Air Force. Barnsley : Pen & Sword, 2009. p. 67.

September 8, 2020

25 September 1940

Northern Front

The day before, seven Vickers Wellesley of No. 47 (RAF) Squadron are instructed to join Khartoum airfield at 09h00. The next day, five planes take off to bomb Gondar at 03h43. However, the Vickers Wellesley K7728 (Squadron Leader James E. Pelly-Fry) encountered an engine problem. Unable to cross the mountains of western Ethiopia, he divert the formation to Metemma airfield. Arrived above the target, several Caproni Ca.133 are observed on the ground. Despite several bomb attacks and machine guns, the crews are unable to confirm any damage [1].

In connection probably with this event, several aircraft of No.430 (RAF) Flight are also sent to attack this airfield. Flight Lieutenant A.B. Mitchell claims a damaged Caproni Ca.133 there [2].

Southern Front

Three Hawker Fury : K3735 (Captain Frank J.M. Meaker), K5663 (Lieutenant Douglas D. Pannell) and K5672 (Lieutenant Robert K. Stephenson) are send to Archers Post, while Hurricane Mk I n°272 (Captain Alfred Q. Masson) and 277 (Lieutenant John S.R. Wells) join Mombasa[3].

Hawker Hurricane Mk I n°277 « Q » (L1909). Collection : SAAF Museum, via Tinus le Roux

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[1] No. 47 (RAF) Squadron : Operations Record Book (Form 540 and Form 541). Kew : TNA, AIR 27 / 463.

[2] SHORES C., RICCI C. « East Africa ». In : Dust Clouds in the Middle East – The Air War for East Africa, Iraq, Syria, Iran and Madagascar, 1940 – 1942. London : Grub Street, 2010. p.63 ; GUSTAVSSON H. « Gloster Gauntlet ». In : Biplane Fighter Aces from the Second World War : http://surfcity.kund.dalnet.se/gauntlet.htm ; GUSTAVSSON H. « Flight Lieutenant A. B. Mitchell ». In : Biplane Fighter Aces from the Second World War : http://surfcity.kund.dalnet.se/commonwealth_mitchell.htm

[3] No.2 (SAAF) Squadron : War Diary. Kew : TNA, AIR/54/1.

September 17, 2020

27 September 1940

Northern Front

Although a first detachment of No.45 (RAF) Squadron has already arrived from Egypt at the end of July to support Vickers Wellesley, its participation is very reduced. However, the decision to deploy the entire squadron to Sudan is take on early September and effectiv on 25 September. The first mission is launched on 27 September when two or three Bristol Blenheims are sent to Gura and Assab airfields.[1]

At the same time, Regia Aeronautica makes several transfers during this day. Thus, three Fiat CR42 of 413 Squadriglia are sent to Bahar Dar, while two Fiat CR.32 of 411 Squadriglia leave for Shashamane and two others of 410 Squadriglia for Dire Dawa. They are joined by a Savoia-Marchetti SM.81 of the 62 Squadriglia (29bis Gruppo).[2]

Southern Front

An attack is reported on Buna, by three Caproni Ca.133 of 31bis Gruppo around 05h45. Two Hawker Fury of No.2 (SAAF) Squadron take off from Garissa to intercept them, but without success. If the Italians have time to drop their bombs, they do not cause any damage.[3]

-----------------------------

[1] No.45 (RAF) Squadron : Operations Record Book (Form 540 and Form 541). Kew : TNA, AIR 27 / 455 ; SHORES C., RICCI C. « East Africa ». In : Dust Clouds in the Middle East – The Air War for East Africa, Iraq, Syria, Iran and Madagascar, 1940 – 1942. London : Grub Street, 2010. p.63 ; SUTHERLAND J., CANWELL D. Air War East Africa 1940 – 1941. The RAF versus the Italian Air Force. Barnsley : Pen & Sword, 2009. p.68.

[2] DUNNING C. Courage Alone, The Italian Air Force 1940 – 1943. Aldershot : Hikoki Publications, 1998. 320 p. ; SHORES C., RICCI C. « East Africa ». In : Dust Clouds in the Middle East – The Air War for East Africa, Iraq, Syria, Iran and Madagascar, 1940 – 1942. London : Grub Street, 2010. p.63.

[3] September – Narrative Norther Operations SAAF. Kew : TNA, AIR/54/8 ; No.2 (SAAF) Squadron : War Diary. Kew : TNA, AIR/54/1.

September 19, 2020

28 September 1940

Northern Front

This day sees the first operation by No.237 (Rhodesia) Squadron since its transfer to Sudan, when the Hawker Hardy K4055 (Pilot Officer Peter H.S. Simmonds, Sergeant Hall) makes two patrols (08:10 and 11:30) above the Atbara River. Indeed, following the decision to entrust SAAF with air operations on the southern front, No. 237 (Rhodesia) Squadron was ordered to move these aircraft from 13 September to join Khartoum. In addition, all original aircrafts are returned to Southern Rhodesia to be replaced only by Hawker Hardy. Nevertheless, this change is very relative, while the activity hardly changes.

According to Pilot Officer Eric Smith :

« No sooner did the ground convoy arrive than we were sent out on detachment to the front. B Flight in the nord, A Flight in the center and C in the south. The front was about 150 miles (240 km) long pivoted on Kassala, which the Italians had captured in their firsh push. This Italian desert equivalent of The Rock contained tanks and armoured cars and was backed by at least 6 000 troops with defended strong points to the nord and south. Facing them, and only in the north was Gazelle force, commanded by Lieutenant Colonel Masservy (later general) with a total ration strengh of just under 1 000. This force was specifically charged with the task of bluffing the Italians that we had defence in strengh. Kassala was an easy two hours drive across firm desert to Khartoum, posing a deadly theat to our communications. »[1]

--------------------------

[1] SALT Beryl. A Pride of Eagles, The Definitive History of the Rhodesian Air Force : 1920 – 1980. Johannesburg : Covos Day, 2001, p. 70 à 71.

September 22, 2020

29 September 1940

Northern Front

A reconnaissance mission is carried out by the French Glenn-Martin 167F No. 102 (Flight Lieutenant Jacques Dodelier, Warrant Officer Yves Trecan, Flight Sergeant Ronan Michel) between 06:50 and 12:10 above the Alomata, Mabra and Amulfaqhe (Dire Dawa area) airfields.[1]

----------------------------

[1] « 29 september 1940 »No.8 (RAF) Squadron : Operations Record Book (Form 540 and Form 541). Kew : TNA, AIR 27 / 114 ; MORIEULT Yves. « Les French Flights, des escadrilles françaises au sein de la RAF ». Aéro Journal. Octobre – novembre 2003. n°33, p.14.

September 24, 2020

30 September 1940

Northern Front

No.45 (RAF) Squadron sends three Blenheims to bomb the Gura airfield around 12h50. However, 412 Squadriglia was transferred to this airfield with nine Fiat CR.42 a few days before. A fight erupts with the Italian fighters during which the Bristol Blenheim Mk I L6665 (Squadron Leader George J. Bush ; Sergeant John C. Usher ; Sergeant James Corney) is shot down and probably claimed by Tenente Mario Visintini with the help of Sottotenente Giovani Levi and Sergente Luigi Baron.

At least one Savoia-Marchetti SM.79 is reported over Aden, around 09:00. Three Gloster Gladiator of No.94 (RAF) Squadron take off but only the L9047 of Flying Officer Gordon S.K. Haywood is able to attack the Italian aircraft. A short confrontation broke out, but the Italian bomber managed to flee quickly, while emitting a slight black smoke (probably because of the bad quality of fuel).

October 2, 2020

1st October 1940

Northern Front

A new reconnaissance flight is made over the Dessie area by the Escadrille d’Aden (Flight Lieutenant Jacques Dodelier, Yves Trecan Warrant Officer, Sergeant Ronan Michel and Joseph Portalis).[1]

Southern Front

In Kenya, the beginning of October is marked by the official transformation of the C Flight of No.1 (SAAF) Squadron to the new No.2 (SAAF) Squadron. The latter is placed under the command of Captain St.Elmo Truter, with five Hawker Hurricane, nine Gloster Gladiator and nine Hakwer Fury.

The initial strength of the No.2 (SAAF) Squadron when it is formally established. The following personnel are noted: (in the background, from the left): Lieutenant Jack Phillips, Adrian M. Colenbrander, John S.R. Wells, Douglas D. Pannell, Flight Lieutenant Robert S. Blake, Captain S.E. Featherstone (Adj), Major St.Elmo Truter (C.O.), Lieutenant Tony Field, Jacobus A. Kok, Rolfe A. Gerneke, G.L. McBride et E.A. Jarvis. (Front, from the left) : Lieutenant Denis R.F. van Blerk, A.R. James (Officer technique), Thomas Condon, Jaapie A. Wiese, Robert K. Stephenson, P.H. Smith et Walter P. Stanford. Collection : SAAF Museum, via Tinus le Roux.

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[1]« 1 october 1940 »,No.8 (RAF) Squadron : Operations Record Book (Form 540 and Form 541). Kew : TNA, AIR 27 / 114.

October 5, 2020

2 October 1940

Northern Front

Three Bristol Blenheim of No.45 (RAF) Squadron take off from Wadi Gazouza, at 14:30 to attack the Gura airfield. Approaching the target, they are intercepted, above Mai Edega, by six Fiat CR.42 of 412 Squadriglia. As during the events of 30 September, one of the British aircraft falls victim of Sergente Maggiore Luigi Baron. This is the Bristol Blenheim L8452. If the observer (Pilot Officer A. Sheppard) can jump and is captured, the pilot (Squadron Leader John W. Dallamore[1]) and the gunner (Sergeant Myles Mackenzie[2]) are killed.[3]

Note that a Blenheim Mk IVF of No.203 (RAF) Squadron is being sent on a recce over Djibouti.[4]

Southern Front

The situation of No.1 (SAAF) Survey Flight is still very difficult. Indeed, following requests for new aircraft, the British Aircraft Eagle Eagle ZS-AIY (No. 1415) is sent from Pretoria. After a few attempts, the aircraft is only allowed to fly short distances (and especially not above the italian territory). The other available aircraft is the Envoy No. 252 which spends more time on maintenance than anything else. At the same time, the SAAF announces the availability of an Avro Anson. The latter (N9976) is, in reality, an aircraft abandoned by the British in Mombasa. Incorporated, with the number 1127, it is quickly discarded because it is difficult to use despite several attempts of repairs.

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[1] Casualty details : Dallamore, John Walter : Commonwealth War Graves Commission : http://www.cwgc.org/find-war-dead/casualty/2272063/DALLAMORE,%20JOHN%20WALTER

[2] Casualty details : Mackenzie, Myles : Commonwealth War Graves Commission : http://www.cwgc.org/find-war-dead/casualty/2272137/MACKENZIE,%20MYLES

[3] SHORES C., RICCI C. « East Africa ». In : Dust Clouds in the Middle East – The Air War for East Africa, Iraq, Syria, Iran and Madagascar, 1940 – 1942. London : Grub Street, 2010. p. 64 et 65 ; SUTHERLAND J., CANWELL D. Air War East Africa 1940 – 1941. The RAF versus the Italian Air Force. Barnsley : Pen & Sword, 2009. p. 68 ; GUSTAVSSON H. « Sergente Maggiore Luigi ”Gino” Baron ». In : Biplane Fighter Aces from the Second World War : http://surfcity.kund.dalnet.se/italy_baron.htm

[4] « 2 october 1940 »,No. 203 (RAF) Squadron : Operations Record Book (Form 540 and Form 541). Kew : TNA, AIR 27 / 1198.

October 9, 2020

3 October 1940

Northern Front

Bristol Blenheims, based at Aden, continue their regular attacks on the various targets of Eritrea and Northern Ethiopia. However, these operations are often limited to three aircraft and crews often failing to observe the possible damage. The objective of the RAF is, nevertheless, to maintain the pressure on the adversary by incessant harassment, and to force them to a war of attrition that the Italians can not win because of their isolation.

An example of these operations can be found in the daily entry of No.8 (RAF) Squadron and No.39 (RAF) Squadron’s ORB on 3 October 1940. Three Bristol Blenheims from each squadron are sent to bomb the railroad in Ayesha, northeastern Ethiopia, respectively between 05:45 – 08:56 and 10:30 – 13:30. The intervention of two Fiat CR.32 is mentioned in the mission reports, one of them being claimed damaged by the defensive fire of the British bombers, unfortunately without further details.

Bristol Blenheim Mk I (L6653 HV-Y) of No.8 (RAF) Squadron on the airfield of Khormaksar (Aden). Collection : No.8 (RAF) Squadron.

October 13, 2020

4 October 1940

Northern Front

In the morning, Captain Brian J. L. Boyle (N5852), Lieutenant Andrew Duncan and Servaas de Kock Viljoen of No.1 (SAAF) Squadron take off from the Azaza Airfield for a patrol in the Azaza – Gallabat area.

Above the Metemma border post, the Gladiator Gladiators are cruising three Fiat CR.42 of 412 Squadriglia. In the ensuing fight, Lieutenant Servaas de Kock Viljoen quickly managed to hit an opposing aircraft, which fell into flames while the pilot jump. It could be Sergeant Ottavio Bracci who, injured, is forced to parachute. Captain Brian J.L. Boyle is also able to claim a damaged aircraft, but his own plane is hit in combat. Sottotenente Fiorindo Rosmino claims a victory (although not confirmed) on an enemy fighter.[1]

The French attached to No.8 (RAF) Squadron continue their flights with the Glenn-Martin 167F No. 102 (Flight Lieutenant Jacques Dodelier, Warrant Officer Yves Trecan, Flight Sergeant Ronan Michel, Flight Sergeant Robert Cunibil). The mission is a success and according to the report, five Savoia-Marchetti SM.79, a Caproni Ca.133 are sighted on the airfield of Dire Dawa, as well as three Fiat CR.32 and a Caproni Ca.133. An Italian fighter tries to intercept the French aircraft, but without success.[2]

Lieutenant Brian J.L. Boyle and his N5852. The photograph is believed to have been taken on 5 November 1940 at the “Heston” forward field in Sudan. Collection : SAAF Museum, via Tinus le Roux

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[1] Brian J.L. Boyle : Logbook ; BROWN J. A. A gathering of Eagles, the campaigns of the South African Air Force in Italian East Africa 1940 – 1941. Cape Town : Purnell, 1970. p. 85 ; GUSTAVSSON H., SLONGO L. Gladiator vs CR.42 Falco (1940 – 1941). Botley : Osprey, 2012. p. 57 ; SCHOEMAN M. Springbok Fighter Victory – Volume 1 : East Africa (1940 – 1941). Nelspruit : Freeworld Publications, [s.d.]. p. 43 et 136 ; SHORES C., RICCI C. « East Africa ». In : Dust Clouds in the Middle East – The Air War for East Africa, Iraq, Syria, Iran and Madagascar, 1940 – 1942. London : Grub Street, 2010. p. 65 et 66 ; SUTHERLAND J., CANWELL D. Air War East Africa 1940 – 1941. The RAF versus the Italian Air Force. Barnsley : Pen & Sword, 2009. p. 68 ; GUSTAVSSON H. « Captain Servaas de Kock Viljoen ». In : Biplane Fighter Aces from the Second World War : http://surfcity.kund.dalnet.se/commonwealth_viljoen.htm ; GUSTAVSSON H. « Lieutenant Colonel Brian John Lister ‘Piggy’ Boyle ». In : Biplane Fighter Aces from the Second World War : http://surfcity.kund.dalnet.se/commonwealth_boyle.htm

[2] « 4 october 1940 », No.8 (RAF) Squadron : Operations Record Book (Form 540 and Form 541). Kew : TNA, AIR 27 / 114 ; MORIEULT Yves. « Les French Flights, des escadrilles françaises au sein de la RAF ». Aéro Journal. Novembre 2003. n°33, p. 14.

Air War over the Horn of Africa (1940 - 1941)

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