Hurricane tank buster (1 Viewer)

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From Operational Records of No.6 Squadron RAF (North Africa) 1942, while flying the Hurricane Mk IID:

The ROA was considered to be 95 miles with fuel enough for 15 minutes of observation over target and 3 attacks. The normal number of aircraft sent was 2 or 6 (in two Vics of 3). Normally, two escort groups accompanied the Hurricane IIDs as top cover, one each at medium and high altitude.

Original squadron was composed entirely of experienced Army Co-operation pilots, as it was found that their training and experience was very valuable, particularly in the area of communication from ground observers (when available) and when locating and identifying targets.

"The formation goes out at a height of 3,000 feet, which is considered to be above the effective range of small arms fire, and below the level of [illegible] bursts. Speed is maintained at 180 mph until the target area is approached, where it is increased to 200 mph. On approaching the target, height is lost to 1,500 feet since at this height observation of ground objects is considerably more accurate. At the same time each Vic changes into line astern.
On sighting the target the formation goes down to 15/20 feet and approximately 1,000 yards away. . . . The approach is made at a speed of 240 mph, since the datum line is then 2° down, sights being set parallel. Variation of 30 mph will affect the accuracy of the shooting. Fire is opened at 700 yards closing to 200 yards, and both Brownings and 'S' Guns are used. The Brownings and 'S' Guns are harmonised at 500 yards. After each burst of one shell per gun the sights are realigned on the target. Normally about 5 bursts can be got in on each attack. The break away is made before reaching the target if possible, to avoid being hit by splinters, and the area is cleared by low flying weaving.
If the tanks are isolated up to 3 attacks can be made. . . ."

"The latter (large groups of M.T.) were always avoided if possible, as the German M.T. seemed to carry a very large amount of very effective light A/A."

It is explained elsewhere in the record that they had tried approaching at the same altitude the Kittybombers used but that the A/A was "impossible" when the attacking aircraft had to fly straight at the targets.

No.6 flew 162 sorties from June-November 1942, with 25 aircraft casualties, 10 category I (repairable at the unit level), 9 category II, and 6 category III (1 missing, 4 abandoned on the ground and lost to the enemy). Only 1 pilot was lost (the pilot of the missing plane) and presumed KIA.
 
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