Battle Of Britain Flashcards
What was ‘Operation Sealion’?
The plan to invade Britain on 15th September 1940 and gain total control by Christmas.
What did Hitler believe?
That if the luftwaffe (German air force) could win control of the skiers it would be far easier for German ships to transport soldiers.
What happened throughout the summer of 1940?
German and British pilots fought each other in the ‘Battle of Britain’
How many fighters did each side have?
Germany had 824 fighter planes and 1017 bombers when the attack began and Britain had 591 fighters
What is a summary of the Battle of Britain?
Germany flew quickly in 5 minutes across the channel from France but Britain took 4 minutes to reach the invading planes after being spotted. A new radar technology meant the British could detect enemy planes before they reached Britain. Britain could react swiftly and have enough fuel to attack German planes again and again.
What was Hitlers next target?
To target British airfields that were badly damaged. Germany was training around 800 new pilots in comparison to Britain’s 200.
What happened on 15 September?
Hitler was singled out at the beginning of the invasion of Britain. Germany lost 60 aircraft to Britain’s 25.
What happened on 16 September?
Hitler postponed operation sea lion and shifted the focus of the German attack. Instead London was targeted in huge bomb raids attempting to cause British to surrender. This was known as blitz.
