Dan Snow's History Hit D-Day: The Air Invasion
Jun 6, 2024
Historian James Daly joins Dan Snow to discuss the crucial role of aircraft in the D-Day operation. They explore strategic bombing, reconnaissance missions, and the diverse array of aircraft involved. Detailed discussions on air invasion tactics, key locations in the invasion, and the pivotal role of air power in the success of D-Day.
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Spitfire Pilot's D-Day Flight
- A Spitfire pilot flew two sorties on D-Day protecting the invasion fleet and beaches.
- He witnessed the largest ever assembly of ships and boats that morning, an incredible historic moment.
Strategic Bombing Softened Germany
- The Allied strategic bombing campaign in 1942-43 weakened the German war industry significantly.
- This prolonged effort helped relocate German resources and softened resistance before D-Day.
Bombing Disrupted German Mobility
- Targeted bombing of French railways and bridges disrupted German troop movements.
- This infrastructure damage hindered quick German reinforcement during the Normandy invasion.