Decoding the US Air Forces' Strategy of Using Bombers as Bait

In episode seven of Masters of the Air, Lieutenant Colonel Robert Rosenthal decides to continue serving with the 100th Bomb Group, even after completing his 25 missions. His colonel reveals a shocking truth - the U.S. Army Air Forces plan to use American bombers as bait for the Luftwaffe. Despite the fear this news brings, Rosenthal chooses to stay, showing his loyalty to his fellow soldiers. This sets the stage for a risky new strategy for the 100th Bomb Group.

The 100th Bomb Group has faced numerous dangerous missions from Regensburg to Munster. Despite facing almost impossible situations, many airmen have managed to survive, even if ending up in POW camps. However, upcoming episodes may push the 100th to their limits with a new, more challenging mission. Instead of targeting factories or German cities, the 100th will have a different objective. While this mission could secure victory for the Allies, it also poses significant risks for the men of the 100th.

The US Strategy of Using Bombers as Bait to Weaken the Luftwaffe

Col Bennett and Robert Rosenthal Masters of the Air - Using Bombers As Bait Was Part Of The US' Bigger Plan To Destroy The Luftwaffe

In episode 7 of Masters of the Air, Colonel Bennett reveals that the Eighth Air Force is shifting its strategy. Airmen are now being sent on missions to provoke the Luftwaffe and ultimately defeat them. By the spring of 1944, the Allies were nearing a full-scale invasion of Germany. However, one major obstacle stood in their way - the formidable Luftwaffe.

The German air force had been a major challenge for the U.S. Army Air Forces throughout the war. In order to defeat Germany, they knew they had to overcome the Luftwaffe.

As a result, the U.S. Army Air Forces came up with new tactics. One of these strategies, as seen in episode 7, involved using P-51 Mustangs. These fast planes flew alongside the typical B-17 bombers of the 100th, providing them with protection from the Luftwaffe. Despite the success of the Mustangs, the U.S. Army Air Forces needed more firepower. They decided to use their own bombers as bait to lure the Luftwaffe into the air. This way, they could focus on eliminating as many enemy aircraft as possible.

Using Bombers As Bait Was Successful - And Resulted In Fewer Air Force Losses

P-51 Mustangs Masters of the Air - Using Bombers As Bait Was Successful - And Resulted In Fewer Air Force Losses

The plan may sound dangerous in Masters of the Air, but in reality, it was a highly successful strategy. Squadrons like the 100th focused on taking down the Luftwaffe, sending their fighter planes ahead to engage them. Instead of being on the defensive, the Air Forces went on the offensive, catching the Luftwaffe off guard. This approach greatly benefited the U.S. Army Air Forces and will probably be praised in Masters of the Air.

Editor's P/S:

The article highlights the harrowing sacrifices and unwavering determination of the 100th Bomb Group during World War II. Lieutenant Colonel Rosenthal's decision to stay with his unit despite the perilous new strategy reflects the deep bonds of loyalty and courage among the airmen. The revelation that American bombers were used as bait to weaken the Luftwaffe is a sobering reminder of the risks involved in aerial combat.

The article also sheds light on the effectiveness of this strategy, which resulted in significant losses for the Luftwaffe and fewer casualties for the U.S. Army Air Forces. This demonstrates the adaptability and ingenuity of the Allies in overcoming formidable challenges. The upcoming episodes of Masters of the Air promise to delve deeper into the experiences of these brave men and the pivotal role they played in shaping the course of the war.