Quote:
Originally Posted by Juha
Thanks a lot, Paul!
Very interesting. I have only one question, have you info from German sources on the size of the main convoy?
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You are welcome, Juha!
I don't have information from German sources, but Morozov's book lists the convoy's composition as follows:
Transports Leesee, Neukuhren, Rauenthaler; Tanker Hermann Andersen; Minesweepers M 343, M 381; Patrol boats V 6109, V 5902, V 5907, NKi 10, NKi 11; Submarine chasers Uj 1207, Uj 1208
In my opinion, that constitutes a fairly large escort force, considering there were only 5 Hampdens and some of these were flown by inexperienced crews. It should be noted that the German navy defended its Arctic convoys quite succesfully for the duration of hostilities, so the heavy escort proved its worth. The escort forces for German convoys in Western Europe were much larger, but they also faced a much more experienced and well-equipped enemy in the strike wings.
Did you consult the reports of the Finnish AF liasion officer in the archives? I wonder whether these contain any information on German ship losses. Morozov's book does not cover attacks by aircraft other than torpedo-bombers, or indeed by other Soviet forces.
Regards,
Paul