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Re: Parachute mines
Hello Bill,
This is not official, but here is the explanation given to me some time ago by a knowledgeable bod. The reason for using the 'mine', rather than a bomb, was to achieve greater blast damage in the target area. This was the result of the mine exploding at ground level and producing a shock wave that spread straight outwards through, for example, residential or industrial buildings, rather than burrowing a hole before detonating, which creates a crater and funnels much of the blast upwards. The practice of bombers dropping a mix of HE and incendiary was based on the same idea.
The German mine used against UK land targets evolved throughout the war, but I believe it was originally adapted simply because it was the largest explosive device the LW could deliver. Much as Jon says, the mine was not intended for use as a bomb so would shatter if allowed to hit the ground without a parachute to slow it down. Also, dropping mines or bombs from very low level also included a great risk of blast damage to the aircraft, which was greatly reduced by the use of a ‘chute.
Perhaps someone with more direct knowledge of the ordinance involved can correct anything I have misrepresented, but this is how it was described to me.
Regards,
Bruce
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