Blackburn Skua question

[Markus Becker]

Did the Skuas that sank the CL Königsberg on April 10th 1940 carry drop tanks?

[Larry]

I do not think that drop tanks were even available to the FAA in April 1940

I understand that the attack was from RNAS Hatston in Orkney which would have been within the range of a Skua which could fly for about 780 miles and a round trip to Bergen is a lot less than that from Orkney.

[Mark E Horan]

No, drop tanks were not carried. The Skua, with its engine performing correctly and run at proper operating speeds, had the range to reach Bergen from "HMS Sparrowhawk" (RNAS Hatston) in the Orkneys.

There was an RAF emergency field on another island 50 miles closer that was available for damaged aircraft or ones that were using too much fuel. Subsequent operations conducted by 806 Squadron later in the campaign, and by 801 Squadron later in the summer and fall, used this field as a staging point, departing Hatston and landing there to refuel before leaving on the assigned mission, and often returning there on the return flight to Hatston.

Mark E. Horan

[Graham Boak]

I believe you are thinking of Sumburgh in the Shetlands.
http://www.bay.tv/sumburgh-airport-webcam,4369

As a point of principle, it is the Shetlands but Orkney is singular. Not commonly known perhaps but you find out if you go there (which I recommend). In both archipegalos the principal island is called "Mainland" which is a little confusing at first.

[Markus Becker]

Thanks, I thought so too but couldn´t find any info.