Even the Blenheim was barely adequate by 1940. I have not the exact figures to hand (I am sure somebody will pop up with these) but casualties among Blenheim crews was very high. Although, it wasn't the worst aeroplane by any means and other factors to do with poor command was partly to blame.
Biplanes lasted well into the second world war. Investment in military aircraft lapsed for a time following WW1 and many were just upgrades of earlier aircraft which explains their archaic look. Mumblings of possible war shook everyone out of their lethargy and the progress of aircraft design really was quick through the 1930s with many modern looking planes being seriously outclassed by 1939/40
The B17 Liberator was introduced in 1937....is this bomber was used in 1935 there must have been leaps and bounds between 1935 and 1937. These birds look as ancient as Orville and Wilbur Wright. Great video though...thanks for sharing.
Yes you are right...it was the B17 flying fortress first delivered for operational developement on aug 4 1937 at Langley field actually designated Y1B-17. Unless Wilkipedia is wrong .
The Vickers Virginia, I believe, remained in front line service till 1937. It was used in parachute training and at the Home Aircraft Depot at Henlow. Some were still flying in 1941. Virginias first entered RAF service in 1924. In '37 the Bristol Blenheim entered service and this was a completely different kettle of fish!
@stinkingdog101 Agree. It is amazing how the onset of war creates new ideas and equipment. Perhaps the British had spent so much money on WW1 that it didn't see the need to invest in its airforce at that time.
Very nice period feel ....
"After this he has no further say in the matter ..... " (ha!)
Exceptionally interesting .... thank you.
kgs42 2 months ago
Even the Blenheim was barely adequate by 1940. I have not the exact figures to hand (I am sure somebody will pop up with these) but casualties among Blenheim crews was very high. Although, it wasn't the worst aeroplane by any means and other factors to do with poor command was partly to blame.
FrancoHitlini 7 months ago
Biplanes lasted well into the second world war. Investment in military aircraft lapsed for a time following WW1 and many were just upgrades of earlier aircraft which explains their archaic look. Mumblings of possible war shook everyone out of their lethargy and the progress of aircraft design really was quick through the 1930s with many modern looking planes being seriously outclassed by 1939/40
FrancoHitlini 10 months ago
Imagine a thousand of these flying over Berlin with 88mm flak blasting all around them. lol
NocturalRyte 2 years ago
Interesting(!) arrangement of the reserve chute under the left arm, can't imagine it being an easy painless deployment.
fundiebasher 2 years ago
Jumping from the wing.
Nowadays that would be called a premature deployment. In those days it was the only way to get the thing out of the bag!
chanctonbury63 1 year ago
The B17 Liberator was introduced in 1937....is this bomber was used in 1935 there must have been leaps and bounds between 1935 and 1937. These birds look as ancient as Orville and Wilbur Wright. Great video though...thanks for sharing.
stinkingdog101 3 years ago
I dont think you really meant to say B17 Liberator?
romanbrough 3 years ago
Yes you are right...it was the B17 flying fortress first delivered for operational developement on aug 4 1937 at Langley field actually designated Y1B-17. Unless Wilkipedia is wrong .
stinkingdog101 3 years ago
The Vickers Virginia, I believe, remained in front line service till 1937. It was used in parachute training and at the Home Aircraft Depot at Henlow. Some were still flying in 1941. Virginias first entered RAF service in 1924. In '37 the Bristol Blenheim entered service and this was a completely different kettle of fish!
slippypippie 3 years ago
@stinkingdog101 Agree. It is amazing how the onset of war creates new ideas and equipment. Perhaps the British had spent so much money on WW1 that it didn't see the need to invest in its airforce at that time.
BJBFOREST 1 year ago
that was real aviation!!!! well for me haha
ElMon25 3 years ago
does any 1 no wat sqn this was taken from coz it looks a lil like raf henlow
yoyodidibro 3 years ago
Great video. Does anyone know if the footage is taken at Martlesham?
Irrit8d 4 years ago
This has got to be the first airplane with a tail gunner !!! If not,which one was.
twinten 4 years ago
That's what I was thinking, he's really stuck back there too
Bomberguy 4 years ago
Fantastic. Great footage. 1930's planes are a favourite of mine, particularly bombers.
As the man says 'keep em coming' and thanks for sharing.
timjim100 4 years ago
Great stuff BG. Thanks. loved the music Don't know what it is but guess that "Gallop" may feature!
2775754raf 4 years ago
Keep 'em coming, Bomberguy!
denberg2 4 years ago
You have a great selection of footage.I am amazed that you have it all.Thank you for sharing.
goagz 4 years ago