Bombing of individual ships at sea by Radar?

[Felix C]

Finished reading "Of Wind and Water" by James Sanders and he recounts bombing individual ships at sea using radar locating only. He was flying a Halifax bomber with Coastal Command at the time(1944) and the targets were in the Kattegat.

Anyone know when this technique began to be used and how successful?
Did US B24 attacking shipping in the China Sea use a similar approach? I read primarily it was low level visual attacks.

[RSwank]

B-24s equipped as "Snooper" or SB-24s did not need to visually site the target.
Here is a description on 868th Squadron history.

"The squadron was equipped with RADAR equipped Liberators (unofficially designated as the SB-24 "Snooper") with an extra crew member to operate the SCR-717 10 cm RADAR; the SCR-729 Aircraft RADAR beacon and a number of other specialized devices. The mission of the squadron was for low level, anti-shipping strikes under the cover of darkness. They had this capability because the radar-sighting devices permitted operation of the bomb-release mechanism irrespective of visual sighting of the target."

A book by Stephen M Perone on the topic.
http://www.amazon.com/World-War-B-24.../dp/188754402X

[Felix C]

Thanks. Bought the book.

[Juha]

On British ASV radars. "ASV MK.VIB made blind bombing possible".see: http://uboat.net/allies/technical/uk_radars.htm.
More on ASV radars e.g. http://www.rquirk.com/cdnradar/cor/chapter17.pdf

[Delmenhorst]

58 and 502 Squadron were quite succesful:

1. april 1945
Skagerrak: Theodor Riedel als Sicherungszerstörer mit Transporter Bretagne Oslofjord eingelaufen und wenig später mit Motorschiff Bukarest und Dampfer Catania wider nach Süden ausgelaufen.

2. april 1945
- At 23.36 hours Halifax ‘N’ from No. 58 Squadron (Captain F/O Atkinson) attacked with bombs 1 motorvessel (5.000 tons) escorted by 1 destroyer and another vessel 5728N 1142E course 360/12 knots. No results seen owing to evasive action. (Unsuccessful attack on Hansa 1)
- At 23.50 hours Halifax ‘B’ from No. 502 Squadron (Captain F/Lt. Knapp) attacked with bombs 1 motorvessel (5.000 tons) escorted by 2 enemy vessel 5735N 1133E course 360/12 knots. Last bomb burst seen to be very near stern of motorvessel. No other results observed. (Unsuccessful attack on Hansa 1)
Skagerrak: Richard Beitzen beim einen nordgehenden Geleit. Theodor Riedel als Sicherung bei einem nach Süden zum Kattegat gehenden Geleit (Transporter Preussen).

3. april 1945
- At 00.01 hours Halifax ‘X’ from No. 502 Squadron (Captain F/Lt. Townshend) attacked with bombs 1 motorvessel (6.000 tons) escorted by 2 destroyers 5736N 1122E course irregular, speed 12 knots. Vessel seen turning out of bomb plumes and what appeared to be small white explosions on decks. (Unsuccessful attack on Hansa 1)
- At 00.28 hours Halifax ‘S’ from No. 58 Squadron (Captain F/O Lawson) attacked with bombs 1 motorvessel (1.500 tons) 5755N 1155E course 320/8 knots. Last bomb appeared to give a much brighter flash than the rest of stick. No other results seen. (Unsuccessful attack on Hansa 1)
- At 00.48 hours Halifax ‘Q’ from No. 58 Squadron (Captain P/O McDonald) attacked with bombs 1 motorvessel (1.000 tons) at 5802N 1110E. Course 150/10 knots with unobserved results. (Unsuccessful attack on Hansa 1)
- At 00.50 hours Halifax ‘K’ from No. 502 Squadron (Captain F/Lt. E P Davenport) attacked with bombs 1 motorvessel (6.000 tons) escorted by 1 destroyer 5736N 1136E course 350/15 knots. Crew estimate bombs straddled wake 30 yards astern. (Unsuccessful attack on Hansa 1)
- At 01.57 hours, Liberator ‘B’ from No. 206 Squadron (Captain F/Lt. Bevan) bombed a firm radar contact in position 5805N 1113E. No results were observed.
- At 01.25 hours Halifax ‘R’ from No. 502 Squadron (Captain F/Lt. J K Davenport) attacked with bombs 1 destroyer which was escorting 2 motorvessel (4.000 tons) 5733N 1126E course 200/15 knots. The third bomb scored a direct hit in the centre of deck slightly aft of amidships, and it is possible that the fourth bomb also hit the destroyer as a very bright flash was seen on the vessel’s starboard beam. Flares revealed a column of greyish white smoke. (Successfull attack on T16)
- 02.31 hours Halifax J7206 (Captain S/L Gramah) attacked with bombs 1 motorvessel (1200 tons) 5727N 1047E stationary. Estimated that bombs straddled motorvessel, the third bomb explosion was exceptionally heavy and shook aircraft. Rear gunner saw smoke after the attack.
Attacks on the ‘Hansa 1’ (unsuccessful) and T16
Gertrude Ohlrogge 1307 BRT sunk /58
Skagerrak: Richard Beitzen mit Preussen in Kattegat. Theodor Riedel zu einer Geleitaufgabe in Skagerrak.

4. april 1945
- At 00.33 hours Liberator ‘B’ from No. 206 Squadron (Captain F/Lt.. Jennins) sightet a fully surfaces U-Boat in position 5752N 0836E course 270/13-15 knots. The front gunner scored hits with MG, then 4 x 600 lb A/S bombs were dropped, one falling to starboard and slightly ahead, the others to port and slightly ahead. Rear gunner attacked with MG. Submarine opened up with moderate flak after a/c had passed over. No results were seen.
- At 02.14 hours Halifax ‘C’ from No. 502 Squadron (Captain F/Lt. James) attacked with bombs 1 motorvessel (4.000 tons) in company with another motorvessel and 7 unknown vessels 5645N 1208E course 250/12 knots. No results observed owing to evasive action from flak.
- At 03.22 hours Halifax ‘N’ from No. 58 Squadron (Captain F/Lt. Swain) attacked with bombs the centre vessel of three in line abreast on southerly course 5828N 1040E. Low cloud prevented observation of results.
Skagerrak: Richard Beitzen als Geleitzerstörer aus dem March zum Oslofjord.

5. april 1945
- At 00.15 hours Halifax ‘J’ from No. 58 Squadron (Captain F/Lt. MacFayen) attacked with bombs 1 motorvessel (4.000 tons) with 3 enemy vessels 5738N 1134E northerly course. As bombs burst navigator saw a large mushroom of flame and a heavy explosion shook the aircraft. Debris was thrown up from amidships of vessel followed by several other explosions. Then a pall of smoke rose to 3.000 ft completely obscuring the flares dropped with the bombs. (Successful attack on Feodosia)
- At 00.45 hours Halifax ‘R’ from No. 502 Squadron (Captain F/Lt. Johnston) attacked with bombs 1 motorvessel (2/3.000 tons) in line with another motorvessel and 2 enemy vessel 5834N 0941E course 100/8 knots. ‘A’ large yellow flash came from the fore deck of the motorvessel and later a column of smoke extended up to 500 feet.
- At 01.21 hours Halifax ‘S’ from No. 58 Squadron (Captain F/Lt. Holden) attacked with bombs one destroyer and one unidentified vessel 5718N 1122E course 090. As visual sighting was lost blind bombing carried out on largest contact. No results observed.
- At 02.30 hours Halifax ‘L’ from No. 502 Squadron (Captain F/Lt. Mair) attacked with bombs 1 unidentified vesel (the largest of 3 contacts) 5823N 0925E course 100/10 knots. No results seen.
- At 03.10 hours Halifax ‘K’ from No. 502 Squadron (Captain (F/Lt. Clark) attacked with bombs 2 motorvessel (1.500 tons) 5815N 1005E. Blind bombing attack carried out with unobserved results.
- At 04.01 hours Halifax ‘B’ from No. 58 Squadron (Captain F/Lt. Powell and crew of 502 Squadron) attacked with bombs 1 motorvessel (3.000 tons) escorted by 1 Narvik Class destroyer and 1 enemy vessel 5804N 1104E. No results seen owing to evasive action from intense flak.
- At 03.58 hours Liberator C from No. 547 Squadron (Captain F/Lt. Waller) attacked with bombs an ‘R’ boat 5806N 0842E course 213/20 knots. No results seen owing to evasive action.
- At 04.02 hours Liberator ‘T’ from No. 206 Squadron (Captain F/Lt. Marham) attacked with bombs a vessel (believed destroyer) 5804N 0855E course nw 10 knots. Plumes and spray seen to envelope bows of vessel.
Attack on Feodosia 3075 BRT 5732N 0700E MacFadyen

6. april 1945
- At 00.31 hours Liberator ‘H’ from No. 206 Squadron (Captain F/Lt. Richards) attacked with bombs a trawler 5806N 1100E going slowly on easterly course resulting in an estimated straddle. The target was indentified too late to stop the attack.
Den danske fiskekutter ‘Minna’ (16 BRT) af Skagen forliste 18 sømil nordnordøst for Skagen uden tab af menneskeliv.

7. april 1945
- At 23.14 hours Halifax ‘O’ from No. 58 Squadron captain F/Lt. Bentley) attacked with bombs 1 motorvessel (3.000 tons) with 1 enemy vessel 5744N 0938E course 320/10 knots. A large mushroom of greyish smoke rising to 200 feet was seen after the attack.
Skagerrak: Richard Beitzen und T20 Oslofjord ausgelaufen zur Sicherung eines nach Süden gehenden Geleites.

8. april 1945
- At 01.00 hours Halifax ‘O’ from No. 502 Squadron (Captain F/Lt. J K Davenport) attacked with bombs an unidentified vessel (possible ‘R’ boat) 5845N 1042E course northerly 16/20 knots. Attack was carried out up wake and engineer saw 3 vivid bomb flashes ahead of wake.
- At 01.33 hours Halifax ‘M’ from No. 58 Squadron (Captain F/O Watts) attacked with bombs a tanker (1.000 tons) 5803N 1057E shaping course for Oslo. Aircraft forced to attack by radar only. No results seen.
- At 02.25 hours halifax ‘C’ from No. 502 Squadron (Captain S/L Pruden) attacked with bombs 1 motorvessel (2.500 tons) with 2 enemy vessels 5729N 1125E course 270/10 knots resulting in an estimated miss astern by 100 feet.
- At 02.08 hours Halifax ‘U’ from No. 58 Squadron (Captain F/Lt. MacFadyen) attacked with bombs 1 motorvessel (3.000 tons) with 2 enemy vessels 5734N 1122E course 165/10 knots with unobserved results.
- At 02.23 hours halifax ‘F’ from No. 502 Squadron S/L Spurgeon attacked 1 motorvessel with 2 other vessels and enemy vessels 5832N 1100E course 350/12 knots. Captain saw a number of red sparks and an enemy vessel closing the position of the sparks. Nothing else seen.
- At 02.25 hours Liberator ‘L’ from No. 206 Squadron (Captain F/Lt. Haggas) attacked with bombs an unidentified vessel 5640N 1128E. Bombing using LAB. No results observed.
- At 03.07 hours Halifax ‘N’ from No. 58 Squadron (Captain F/Lt. Holden) attacked with bombs 1 motorvessel (3.000 tons) escorted by 2 other vessels 5820N 1027E course 340/12 knots resulting in an estimated straddle across the vessel’s stern.
- At 03.03 hours Liberator ‘C’ from No. 206 Squadron (Captain F/Lt. Green) attacked with bombs a schooner 5708N 1151E course 280/5 knots. It is believed that the target was straddled, the first bomb falling 150 feet short. Identification was too late to break off the attack.
Motorskonnerten ‘Cosmos’ fra Odense på 87 BRT blev sænket på position 5659N 1143 uden tab af menneskeliv.
Losses:
- Liberator ‘F’ from No. 206 Squadron (Captain F/Lt.. Howell, Navs. F/O Stass and F/O Heatlie), took off from Leuchars at 20.18 hours on the 8th on an A/U Patrol in the Kattegat. This aircraft failed to return, no signals being received.
Liberator GR. VIII KK259 (PQ-F) fra No. 206 Squadron styrtede i Kattegat. Klokken 04.25 meldte piloten, F/Lt B.L.Howell, at hans fly var beskadiget. Det var sidste kontakt med flyet. F/O Heatlie begravet på Skagen kirkegård. Sgt. Ellison i Marstrand. Resten forsvundet i havet.
Carsten Russ 994 BRT sunk /502
Skagerrak: Friedrich Ihn eingesetzt im Geleitdienst zwischen Oslofjord und Kattegat. Theodor Riedel und T19 im Verband des F.d.Minsch. Kristiansand-Süd ausgelaufen, wegen ungünstiger Wetterlage Vorhaben jedoch abgebrochen und wider eingelaufen.

9. april 1945
- At 01.23 hours Halifax ‘O’ from No. 58 Squadron (Captain P/O MacDonald) attacked with bombs 1 motorvessel (1.000 tons) 5850N 0944E course 120/8 knots. Bomb bursts were seen followed by a mushroom of white smoke.
- At 02.07 hours Halifax ‘A’ from No. 502 Squadron (Captain F/O Maudsley) attacked with bombs 1 motorvessel (2.500 tons) in company with an unidentified vessel 5802N 1058E course 240/16 knots. Severe concussion was felt as a result of the bomb bursts the aircraft being lifted bodily. Immediately after the attack the vessel was seen to be smoking.
- At 02.25 hours Halifax ‘X’ from No. 502 Squadron (Captain F/Lt. Johnson) attacked with bombs 1 motorvessel (2.500 tons) with another motorvessel (2.000 tons) 5757N 1052E course 160/15 knots. No results seen other than the bomb flashes.
- At 02.41 hours Halifax ‘Q’ from No. 58 Squadron (Captain F/Lt. Atkinson) attacked by radar with bombs an unidentified vessel 5759N 1102E course 180. No results seen.
- At 03.09 hours Halifax ‘B’ from No. 502 Squadron (Captain F/Lt. E P Davenport) attacked with bombs an unidentified motorvessel with another motorvessel 5755N 1111E course 350/10 knots. Estimated that bombs straddled target. Thick gray smoke was seen rising from the motorvessel after the attack.
- At 03.10 hours Halifax ‘E’ from No. 58 Squadron (Captain F/Lt. Lawson) attacked with bombs 1 motorvessel (3.000 tons) 5848N 0940E course 220/15 knots. The last bomb struck forward of amidships causing a cloud of smoke and flame which could be seen 25 miles away. The upper gunner had a remarkable escape when the photo flash, exploding in the bomb bay, tore a large hole in the fuselage and he was blown out of the aircraft. Furtunately a metal ring in the parachute harness got caught up and he completed the homeward run suspended underneath the fuselage. In spite of the severe damage to the aircraft, the captain made a safe landing.
- At 03.45 hours Halifax ‘L’ from No. 502 Squadron (Captain F/Lt. Mair) attacked with bombs 1 motorvessel (2.500 tons) 5800N 1100E course 090/15 knots. Crew estimate 2 hits, one on starboard bow the other on the port quarter. Two columns of smoke mushroomed up to 500 ft.
- At 04.25 hours Liberator ‘C’ from No. 206 Squadron (Captain F/O Grant) attacked with bombs using LAB 1 motorvessel (5.000 tons) in company with another motorvessel and enemy vessel 5800N 1101E course north 14 knots, resulting in a straddle amidships. A large column of water enveloped the target and an orange coloured flame was seen on the vessel.
Skagerrak: Richard Beitzen und T20 bei einem nach Norden marchierenden Geleit durch einen Bomber angegriffen. T20 durch Bordwaffenbeschuss leicht beschädigt.

10. april 1945
- At 01.40 hours Halifax ‘F’ from No. 502 Squadron (Captain F/Lt. Knapp) attacked with bombs 1 motorvessel (5.000 tons) in convoy with another motorvessel (4.000) 1 destroyer and 1 enemy vessel 5724N 1125E course 150/10 knots. Crew estimate bombs straddled largest motorvessel resulting in one certain hit. Flames and smoke were seen.
- At 02.53 hours Halifax ‘Q’ from No. 58 Squadron (Captain F/Lt. Robingson) attacked with bombs 1 motorvessel (3.500/4.000 tons) escorted by 1 destroyer and 1 enemy vessel. Believed bombs straddled the motorvessel as a green glow momentarily seen and motorvessel ceased fire. Considerable accurate flak damaged the aircraft’s elevators. Both the motorvessel and destroyer were flying balloons.
- At 01.54 hours Halifax ‘U’ from No. 58 Squadron (Captain F/O Watt) attacked with bombs 1 motorvessel (4.500 tons) escorted by 1 destroyer and 2 enemy vessels 5712N 1144E course 210/12 knots. Two hits claimed one on stern and one aft of amidshps which was followed by two columns of white smoke. The motorvessel was flying two balloons at 1.000 feet.
- At 02.31 hours Halifax ‘N’ from No. 58 Squadron (Captain F/Lt. Holden) attacked with bombs 1 motorvessel (8.000 tons) in convoy with another motorvessel (4.000 tons), 1 destroyer and 2 enemy vessels 5730N 1111E course 320/14 knots. It is estimated that 2 hits were scored as a result of a straddle amidships. The vessel was covered by plumes and there was considerable smoke and some debris.
- At 02.45 hours Halifax ‘O’ from No. 502 Squadron (Captain F/Lt. Towell) attacked with bombs 1 motorvessel (3.000 tons) with another motorvessel and enemy vessel 5710N 1146E course 170/8 knots. No results observed.
Losses:
- Halifax ‘X’ from No. 502 Squadron S/Ldr Pruden, F/O Leigh, took from Stornoway at 21.34 hours on the 10th on an A/S Patrol, from which it failed to return. No messages were received.
Kattegat, Halifax GR. III, PN402 kodet V9-X fra No. 502 Squadron styrtede i Kattegat. Natten mellem den 9. og 10. april mellem kl. 01.40 og 02.45 angreb 2 Halifaxes fra No. 502 Squadron og 3 Halifaxes fra No. 58 Squadron en mindre konvoj sydøst for Læsø. Hansa 1 (1923 BRT) samt T13 og F7 blev angrebet og ramt. T13 og Hansa blev så beskadiget at de sank kort efter. PN402 (S/Ldr. Dennis Hewitt Pruden DFC) har muligvis forsøgt angreb på samme konvoj. Der er aldrig fundet spor af flyet eller de 8 besætningsmedlemmer. Nedskudt af Oberleutnant Koch fra 1./NJG 3.
Attacks on Hansa 1 1923 BRT /502 and T13 1132 /58

11. april 1945
- At 01.56 hours Halifax ‘L’ from No. 502 Squadron (Captain F/Lt. Townsend) attacked an motorvessel 3/4.000 tons with an enemy vessel present, in 5847N 0933E with bombs. A thick cloud of smoke which trailed for 3 or 4 miles was seen after the attack, the motorvessel moving slowly north east.
- At 02.50 hours Halifax ‘S’ from No. 58 Squadron (Captain F/Lt. MacFadyen) attacked an motorvessel (4.000 tons) with two smaller vessels in company in position 5853N 1044E course 170/10 knots. Bombs were seen to fall to port about the breadth of the ship away.
- At 03.32 hours Halifax ‘R’ from No. 502 Squadron (Captain F/Lt. J K Davenport) attacked an motorvessel (1.500 tons) with two unidentified vessels present in position 5854N 1044E on course 360/10 knots. An undershoot is estimated, the flare having gone out 5 seconds before the bombing attack was made.
- At 03.35 hours Halifax ‘O’ from No. 58 Squadron (Captain P/O MacDonald) attacked with bombs an motorvessel (1.500 tons) with two unidentified vessels present in 5843N 1043E on course 090/12 knots. No results seen.
- At 3050 hours Halifax ‘A’ from No. 502 Squadron (Captain F/Lt. Clark attacked with bombs an motorvessel 1.500 tons with another vessel present in 5843N 1050E on course 150/10 knots. No results seen.
- At 23.45 hours Halifax ‘C’ from No. 58 Squadron (Captain F/Lt. Bentley) attacked with bombs the leading destroyer of two, in position 5826N 1039E on course 360/20 knots. Bombs seen to burst about 50 yads to starboard.
- At 23.55 hours Halifax ‘K’ from No. 502 Squadron (Captain F/Lt. Rusch) attacked with bombs a motorvessel (2.000 tons) escorted by two destroyers (possibly same as above) in 5833N 1043E on course 360/15 knots. The motorvessel was enveloped in smoke and appeared to be on fire. Further illumination by flares showed the vessel stationary. During action a/c suffered severe damage from flak, but returned safely to base.
Skagerrak: Richard Beitzen bei einen nach Süden gehenden Geleit, Friedrich Ihn bei eniem nach Norden marchierenden.

12. april 1945
- At 23.36 hours Halifax ‘F’ from No. 502 Squadron (Captain F/Lt. Biggar) attacked a 1.500 tons vessel with bombs in 5724N 1116E on course 350 degrees, speed unknown. Bombs burst 1½ ships length ahead of vessel.
Skagerrak: Richard Beitzen und T19 im Verband des F.d.Minsch. erneute Minenunternehmung im westlichen Skagerrak wegen schlechten Wetters abgebrochen und in Kristiansand Süd eingelaufen. Friedrich Ihn, Richard Beitzen und T17 im Geleitdienst eingesetzt. hans Lody, seit etwa 10.4 1945 in Kopenhagen, auf dem Verlegungsmarch im Kaggetat nach Frederikshavn.

13. april 1945
- At 00.24 hours Liberator ‘T’ from No. 206 Squadron (Captain F/Lt. Thompson) attacked with bombs an unidentified vessel of 2/300 tons in position 5844N 1038E course nw 4-6 knots. Vessel was believed sunk.
- At 00.47 hours Halifax ‘X’ from No. 58 Squadron (Captain F/O Wilmot Dear) sighted a convoy consisting of 1 transport 4/5.000 tons, 1 motorvessel 2/3.000 tons, 1 destroyer and 2 enemy vessels, in position 5644N 1118E on course 200/10 knots. The transport was attacked with bombs. No results seen.
- At 01.01 hours Liberator ‘J’ from No. 206 Squadron (Captain F/Lt. Higgan) attacked with bombs 1 of two 1.500 tons motorvessels in position 5754N 0818E course 080/12 knots. A straddle aft on vessel was observed.
- At 02.49 hours Halifax ‘L’ from No. 502 Squadron (Captain F/Lt. Powell) attacked with bombs the larger of two motorvessels 2.000 and 1.500 tons in position 5658N 1030E course 160/8 knots. Flares did not function correctly and bombs overshot, the closest being 200 yards from starboard bow.
- At 03.10 hours Halifax ‘D’ from No. 502 Squadron (Captain F/Lt. Mair) attacked with bombs 1 motorvessel 1.500 tons with 2 unidentified vessels in position 5858N 1030E course 1809/12 knots. No results seen.
- At 03.10 hours Halifax ‘U’ from No. 58 Squadron (Captain F/O Davey) attacked with bombs 1 motorvessel 10.000 tons and 3 or 4 motorvessel in position 5640N 1118E course 350/12 knots. No results seen.
Attack on Ostland 5273 brt 5644N 1118E Wilmoth-Dear
Skagerrak: Fridrich Ihn und T17 als Sicherung b ein einem vom Oslofjord nach Süden gehenden Geleit. Hans Lody in Frederikshavn eingelaufen.

14. april 1945
- At 02.52 hours Halifax ‘T’ from No. 502 Squadron (Captain F/Lt. Townshend) attacked with bombs an motorvessel 6/8.000 tons in convoy in position 5644N 1210E course 200/8 knots. No results seen.
- At 02.52 hours Halifax ‘U’ from No. 58 Squadron (Captain F/Lt. Holden) attacked with bombs 1 motorvessel (3.000 tons) in convoy with 2 other motorvessels of 2.500 tons and 1.000 tons in position 5645N 1144E course 120/7 knots. A straddle across bows was claimed.
- At 03.27 hours Halifax ‘H’ from No. 58 Squadron (Captain F/Lt. Robinson) attacked with bombs 1 motorvessel 8/10.000 tons, of cargo liner type, with 2 enemy vessels in position 5640N 1150E course 180/8 knots. Stick fell very close, the two centre bombs possible hitting the vessel, as their flashes appeared considerably brighter than the rest.
Skagerrak: Friedrich Ihn und T17 als Sicherung bei einem zum Oslofjord marchierenden Geleit. Dabei das sich falsch verhaltende deutsche U-Boot U235 im kattegat irrtümlich durch T17 mit Wasserbomben versenkt. Theodor Riedel und T19 im Geleit Verlegungsmarch von Kristianssand-Süd nach Horten, Oslofjord. Beide Boote aus dem Verband des F.d.Minsch. entlassen.

15. april 1945
- At 01.59 hours Halifax ‘C’ from No. 58 Squadron (Captain P/O McDonald) bombed an motorvessel 1.000 tons in position 5819N 1035E course 240/8 knots. No results seen.
- At 02.15 hours Halifax ‘F’ from No. 502 Squadron (Captain F/Lt. Rush) bombed an motorvessel 2.000 tons with a 1.500 ton motorvessel in position 5833N 1023E couse 180/10 knots. The entire stick fell parallel to vessel 30 yards to port.
- At 02.45 hours Halifax ‘M’ from No. 502 Squadron (Captain F/O Mawdsley) attacked with bombs an 5.000 ton, 3 island motorvessel with two other vessels, one of 2.000 tons, the other unknown. No results were seen.
- At 03.45 hours Halifax ‘R’ from No. 502 Squadron (Captain F/Lt. Johnston) bombed the floating dock at Sandefiord. Results were unobserved due to intense light and medium flak.
Theodor Riedel und T17 als Sicherung für den vom Oslofjord zum Kattegat gehenden Transporter Preussen in See.

16. april 1945 - 18. april 1945 - ingen angreb
Skagerrak: Richard Beitzen und Hans Lody mit den Transportern Catania und RO 1 sowie dem U-Boot U1057 auf dem March von Larvik bzw. Frederikshavn zum Oslofjord. Theodor Riedel und T17 mit Preussen eingetroffen im Kattegat.

17. april 1945
Skagerrak: Hans Lody und T19 als Geleitsichrung für den Transporter Catania auf dem March vom Oslofjord nach Frederikshavn.

18. april 1945
Skagerrak: Transporter RO 1 im Geleit von Richard Beitzen Oslofjord ausgelaufen zum March nach Frederikshavn

19. april 1945
- At 00.56 hours Halifax ‘C’ from No. 58 Squadron, (Captain F/O Watts), bombed 1 motorvessel (3.500 tons) with 2 unidentified vessels in position 5741N 1036E, Stat/NW. Two hits are claimed, thick smoke was seen over the vessel, which, later, illuminaed by flares, appeared to be listing.
- At 01.05 hours Halifax ‘C’ from No. 502 Squadron, (Captain F/Lt. Knapp), bombed an motorvessel (3.500) with two other motorvessels of 3.500 tons and 1.500 tons, and 5 enemy vessels in position 5836N 1021E course 360/8 knots. No results were seen.
- At 01.53 hours Halifax ‘T’ from No. 502 Squadron (Captain F/Lt. James) in position 5830N 1040E bombed a 3.000 ton motorvessel with 2 other motorvessels of 2.500/3.000 and 3 enemy vessels on course 180/8. The stick appeared to fall across the bows of the ship.
- At 02.47 hours Halifax ‘J’ from No. 58 Squadron (Captain F/Lt. Robinson) bombed 1 motorvessel of 3.500 tons with an motorvessel (2.000 tons), an enemy vessel and 3 unidentified vessels, in position 5838N 1030E course 200/5 knots. No results were seen.
- At 02.59 hours Halifax ‘M’ from No. 502 Squadron (Captain F/Lt. Townsherd), in position 5835N 1025E bombed an motorvessel (3.500 tons) with 1 motorvessel (3.500 tons), 1 enemy vessel and 1 unidentified. Course 180/8 knots. Two hits are estimated.
- At 03.08 hours Halifax ‘H’ from No. 58 Squadron (Captain F/Lt. Holden) bombed 1 motorvessel (3.500 tons) in position 5822N 1026E course 150/10 knots. The last bomb burst 5-10 yards off starboard bow. No other results were seen.
- At 04.02 hours Halifax ‘B’ from No. 502 Squadron (Captain F/Lt. J K Davenport) in position 5831N 1053E bombed a possible motorvessel (2.000 tons), course northerly at 10 knots. No results were seen.
- At 23.57 hours Liberator ‘J’ from No. 206 Squadron (Captain F/Lt. Jennins) in position 5828N 1048E bombed a coaster (1.000 tons) course 340/9 knots. A straddle is estimated.
Attack on Tübingen 5741N 1036E F/O Watts
M-403 750 brt sunk 502
Dammtor 2834 brt sunk /58
Dänemark: Im Verband der Kgr. Thiele sind der Schwere Kreutzer Prinz Eugen, die Zerstörer Karl Galster und Z25 und das Torpedoboot T23 in Kopenhagen eingelaufen.

20. april 1945
- At 00.37 hours Halifax ‘X’ from No. 58 Squadron (Captain P/O MacDonald) in position 5645N 1120E attacked an motorvessel (5.000 tons) with 2 motorvessels (3.000 tons) and 1 unidentified vessel, course 180/8 knots. The bombs undershot by about 30 yards.
- At 00.45 hours Halifax ‘R’ from No. 502 Squadron (Captain F/O Mawdsley) in position 5725N 1122E bombed an motorvessel (3.000 tons) with 1 destroyer, course 350/15 knots. No results were seen owing to evasive action.
- At 00.55 hours Halifax ‘T’ from No. 502 Squadron (Captain F/Lt. Johnson) in position 5615N 1120E attacked an motorvessel (4.000 tons) with 2 motorvessels (3.000 tons) and 1 enemy vessel, course 180/12 knots. A straddle was obtained and 1 bomb exploded on the vessel.
- At 00.55 hours Halifax ‘A’ from No. 502 Squadron (Captain F/Lt.. Rush) in position 5645N 1115E bombed an motorvessel (4.000 tons) with 2 motorvessels (2.000 tons) and 1 vessel (1.500 tons) on course 170/10 knots. No results seen owing to evasive action.
- At 01.35 hours Halifax ‘J’ from No. 58 Squadron (Captain F/Lt. McFadyen) in position 5732N 1127E bombed a destroyer with 1 motorvessel on course 260/15. Again no results were seen owing to evasive action.
- At 01.35 hours Halifax ‘B’ from No. 58 Squadron (Captain F/O Davey) in position 5635N 1113E bombed an motorvessel (5.000 tons) with 2 motorvessels (4.000 tons) course 180/8 knots. One hit amidships is claimed. Flames and much smoke were seen.
- At 02.37 hours Halifax ‘F’ from No. 58 Squadron (Captain F/Lt. Bentley) in position 5724N 1120E bombed an motorvessel (3.500 tons) with 2 enemy vessels, on NE course at 10 knots. A near miss astern is claimed.
- At 03.08 hours Liberator P/224 (Captain S/Ldr Johnson) in position 5840N 0929E attacked a coaster under 1.000 tons) on course 210, speed unknown. Bombs fell slightly to port and overshot by about 50 yards.
Losses:
- Liberator ‘N’ from No. 206 Squadron (Captain LT/Cdr Guilonard, Navs. P/O Harding & W/O Topliffe) were airborne from Leuchars at 20.11 hours on a A/U patrol in the Kattegat. No signals were received and the aircraft failed to return.
Liberator GR.VIII, KH410 PQ-N, fra No. 206 Squadron styrtede ned ved Nørlund Skov/Hobro. Over Aalestrup blev flyet angrebet af natjager og styrtede ved midnat ned i den vestlige del af Rold Skov. Hele besætningen omkom. W/O K Emery, W/O G C K Long, W/O W W Spencer, W/O T K Theaker, P/O W T H Gale, P/O G H Topliff, F/O A J Harding, F/O A R T Smith (pilot), F/S F R Orritt og Lt-Comm N Guilonard (hollandske marine) begravet på Aarestrup kirkegård. Guilonard og Harding blev slynget ud af flyet, men døde kort efter. Først begravet i skoven af tyskerne, men i 1947 flyttet til Aarestrup kirkegård.
Attacks on Treuenfels 8457 brt beskadiget F/O Davey + muligvis F/L Johnston
Trondhjem 1147 brt damaged /502
Skagerrak: Hans Lody und T19 bei einem zum Oslofjord marchierenden Geleit.

21. april 1945
- At 00.40 hours Halifax ‘M’ from No. 502 Squadron (Captain F/Lt.y Clark) in position 5845N 1210E attacked an motorvessel (4/5.000 tons) with 1 motorvessel (3/4.000 tons) 1 motorvessel (2.500 tons), course 180/8 knots. The bombs fell across bows, the third one exploding on the foredeck, causing a pall of smoke over the vessel, which appeared stationary after the attack.
- At 01.15 hours Halifax ‘L’ from No. 502 Squadron (Captain S/Ldr Biggar) in position 5903N 1003E (Larvik) bombed a stationary motorvessel (2.500 tons). A bright orange explosion followed the attack.
- At 01.26 hours Halifax ‘H’ from No. 502 Squadron (Captain F/Lt. Powall) bombed one of two motorvessels (4.000 tons) with a third motorvessel of 3.000 tons in position 5629N 1213E on course 170/10 knots. A direct hit with one bomb was observed, which caused a fire giving off intermittent explosions.
- At 01.44 hours Liberator ‘L’ from No. 206 Squadron (Captain F/O Elviss) attacked a surfaces U-Boat 700 tons in position 5711N 1142E with bombs. A straddle is claimed and 7 minutes after attack an orange flash was seen from explosion in the sea and radar contact was not regained.
- At 01.55 hours Halifax ‘S’ from No. 58 Squadron (Captain S/Ldr Howard) in position 5635N 1210E bombed an motorvessel (3.000 tons) with 5 unidentified vessels on course 170/10 knots. No results were seen due to the weather.
- At 02.40 Halifax ‘A’ from No. 502 Squadron (Captain F/Lt. Mair) in position 5907N 1012E bombed a stationary motorvessel (10.000 tons) with three other very large vessels. No results were seen due to the evasive action necessary.
Ostmark 3047 brt sunk /502
Skagerrak: Theodor Riedel und T17 als sicherung bei einem vom Kattegat zum Oslofjord laufenden Geleit.

22. april 1945
- At 00.36 hours Halifax ‘J’ from No. 58 Squadron (Captain F/Lt. Holden) in position 5728N 1058E bombed 1 motorvessel (1.500 tons) with 2 unidentified vessels on course 275/10 knots. No results could be observed owing to evasive action.
- At 01.20 hours Halifax ‘M’ from No. 502 Squadron (Captain F/Lt. J K Davenport) in posiiton 5728N 1026E bombed 1 motorvessel (4.000 tons) with 2 motorvessel and 2 enemy vessels, stationary, heading 300 degs. Two bombs hit the motorvessel forward causing a large orange explosion and fire.
- At 01.45 hours Halifax ‘L’ from No. 502 Squadron (Captain F/Lt. Townherd) in position 5645N 1156E bombed an unidentified vessel of 1.500 tons, stationary, heading 100 degs. No results were seen.
- At 01.50 hours Halifax ‘O’ from No. 502 Squadron (Captain F/Lt. Knapp) in position 5902N 1003E (Larvik) bombed 1 stationary tanker (7.000 tons). A straddle on the stern caused a bright flash and smoke was seen issuing from the ship.
- At 02.02 hours Halifax ‘U’ from No. 58 Squadron (Captain F/O Watts) in position 5728N 1036E attacked an motorvessel of 8.000 tons with 3 enemy vessels, stationary, heading 360 degs. The nearest bomb fell 10/15 yards from the starboard bow, giving likely hit or straddle on an enemy vessel which was lying close to the motorvessel.
Attack on Neukuhren 4518 brt sunk 5728N 1036E F/L Davenport
Schleswig 10234 brt damaged /502

23. april 1945
- At 00.22 hours Halifax ‘X’ from No. 58 Squadron (Captain P/O McDonald) in position 5821N 0904E attacked an motorvessel (2.000 tons) with motorvessel (1.000 tons) in line astern, course 140/8 knots. The bombs burst a ship’s length astern.
- At 00.55 hours Halifax ‘A’ from No. 502 Squadron (Captain F/O Mawdsley) made a blind bombing attack, owing to cloud, on a unidentified vessel believed motorvessel (2.000 tons), with another smaller vesel also present in position 5712N 1125E, on course 330. Bomb bursts were seen through clear patches 150 yards on starboard quarder of motorvessel.
- At 01.20 hours Liberator ‘T’ from No. 86 Squadron (Captain F/Lt. N E M Smith) in position 5649N 1132E attacked a medium to small motorvessel, on course 070/8 knots. The bombs appeared to overshoot astern.
- At 01.31 hours Halifax ‘O’ from No. 502 Squadron (Captain F/Lt. Johson) in position 5721N 1131E attacked an motorvessel (3.000 tons) with 1 unidentified vessel on course 180/12 knots. The stick straddled stern of the vessel, but no hits were seen. The a/c entered cloud immediately after the attack.
- At 02.55 hours Halifax ‘T’ from No. 502 Squadron (Captain S/Ldr Spurgeon) in position 5812N 0915E bombed one of two motorvessels (2.000 tons) on course 360/8 knots. Only the bursts were seen, but one motorvessel appeared stationary after the attack.
- At 03.15 hours Halifax ‘M’ from No. 502 Squadron (Captain F/Lt. Rush) in position 5812N 0918E bombed one of two motorvessels (1.500/2.000 tons), course 120/6 knots. A straddle amidships is claimed with 2 hits. A small fire saw seen which suddenly became a series of very brilliant explosions.
- At 03.22 Halifax ‘C’ from No. 58 Squadron (Captain F/Lt. McFadyen) in position 5724N 1049E bombed 1 destroyer with 1 unknown vessel, on course 300/20 knots. An undershoot 30 yards astern was seen.
- At 05.27 hours Liberator ‘J’ from No. 206 Squadron (Captain F/O Fisher) attacked with bombs a fully surfaces U-Boat with 1 destroyer as escort in position 5723N 1123E course 350/12 knots. A straddle behind conning tower is claimed. U-Boat was covered in spray and radar contact was not regained after 1½ miles.
Skagerrak: Bei drei verschiedenen, vom Oslofjord nach Süden zum Kattgat marchierenden Geleiten eingesetzt als Geleitsicherung Hans Lody, Fridrich Ihn und T17.

24. april 1945
- At 00.05 hours Liberator ‘C’ from No. 311 Squadron (Captain F/Lt. Protiva) in position 5700N 1137E attacked a heavily armed 6.000 ton motorvessel course and speed unknown. 1 bomb was thought to make a direct hit. The ship was left on fire. Intense flak from vessel ceased after the attack, but the a/c was considerably damaged and returned to base on 3 engines. No injuries were sustained by the crew.
- At 00.30 hours Halifax ‘H’ from No. 502 Squadron (Captain S/Ldr Biggar) in position 5637N 1113E bombed 1 motorvessel 12/14.000 tons with 1 enemy vessel and 3 unidentified course 160/14 knots. No results were seen.
- At 00.42 hours Halifax ‘S’ from No. 502 Squadron (Captain F/Lt. Mair) in position 5712N 1042E bombed 1 motorvessel 8.000 tons with 2 enemy vessels course 150/10 knots. 2 direct hits, with a possible 3rd were seen followed by 2 distinct fires amidship and forward, while smoke poured from the vessel.
- At 01.00 hours Liberator ‘E’ from No. 206 Squadron (Capt. Prinsloo) attacked a stationary surfaces U-Boat in position 5539N 1530E. Depth charges fell 200 yards to port.
- At 01.30 hours Liberator ‘E’ from No. 206 Squadron (Capt. Prinsloo), attacked with depth charges, a sailing vessel in position 5530N 1454E. Depth charges straddled and enveloped vessel in plumes.
- At 01.41 hours Liberator ‘O’ from No. 206 Squadron (Captain F/Lt.y Ayrton) attacked with depth charges a radar contact, thought to be a submerging U-Boat in position 5501N 1423E. No results seen, but thought to be a good LAB attack.
- At 03.07 hours Halifax ‘F’ from No. 58 Squadron (Captain F/Lt. Thacker) attacked a transport af 10/12.000 tons with 1 motorvessel 6/8.000 tons and 3 enemy vessels in position 5733N 1045E course 010/10-12 knots. The nearest bomb fell 10 yards from port beam and the miduppper gunner reports a brilliant red flash from the position of the vessel.
Losses:
- Halifax ‘J’ from No. 58 Squadron F/O Wilmot Dear and F/O Watling were airborne from Stornoway at 1945 hours on an A/S Patrol from which it failed to return. A sighting report was received at 00.40 hours from position 5717N 1042E.
Halifax GR. II, JP299 kodet BY-J fra No. 58 Squadron, F/Lt Arthur Thomas Wilmot-Dear (DFC) søgte efter det tyske skib Tübingen (5.433 BRT) som F/Lt Main fra No. 502 Squadron havde angrebet med 7 500 lbs bomber. JP299 blev skudt ned over Skagerrak nord for Skagen af Oberleutnant Koch fra 1./NJG 3 (Staffelkapitän). Nedskydningen blev kl. 01.40 observeret af F/Lt L G Thacker i NA235 30 km nord for Hirtshals. Besætning F/O A T C Wilmot-Dear, F/Lt W H HAnks, F/O V G Walting, F/Sgt. R F Watts, Sgt. A D Blakey, F/O R B Livongstone, SGT J J A Pidgen, Sgt. G W Ramsay og W/O G W Murray.
- Halifax ‘X’ from No. 58 Squadron F/O Davey and F/O Parker took off from Stornoway on an A/S Patrol at 20.14 hours and failed to return. No messages were received.
Halifax II JP336 fra No. 58 Squadron (BY-X) styrtede i havet ved Anholt. Tre mand overlevede nedstyrtningen og to forsvandt i havet. Andenpiloten (T E Rosenthal) er begravet i Varberg. På Odder Ny Kirkegård ligger F/O M A Parker og F/O E I Ford samt Sgt. E N Oddy. Ramt af flak over havet. Piloten, F/O L B Davey forsøgte at nå Djursland. Nødlandede på havet 1 sømil nø Gjerrild. Efter 36 timer på havet blev de overlevende opsamlet ved Anholt og overgivet til tyskerne. Besætning F/O L B DAvey, F/Sgt. T E Rosenthal, F/O M A Parker, P/O R L McKinney, Sgt. G E Cockroft, F/O E I Ford, F/O J V Johnson, Sgt. G A Guinane og Sgt. E N Oddy.
Attack on Tübingen 5453 brt 5712N 1042E F/L Mair
Nordsterne 43 brt sunk 502
Skagerrak: Richard Beitzen und T19 als Sicherung bei einem vom Kattegat zum Solofjord gehenden Geleit. Dabei nachts in hellem Mondlicht Luftangriff auf den Konvoi. Durch Bombennahtreffer auf Richard Beitzen erhebliche Schäden in Kessel- und Hilfmaschinenräumen, dazu mehrere Wasereinbrüche und schiffbauliche Schäden an Str.-Bordwand sowie an Ober- und Aufbaudeck. Als Höchstfahrt für den Zerstörer nur noch 15 kn möglisch. Nach Einlaufen des Konvois in den Oslofjord hat Richard Beitzen nach Oslo zum Docken verlegt.

25. april 1945
- At 00.53 hours Liberator ‘J’ from No. 86 Squadron (Captain P/O Moysey) in position 5657N 1150E bombed 1 motorvessel 2.500 tons course 106/8 knots and claims a straddle.
- At 01.45 hours Halifax ‘O’ from No. 502 Squadron (Captain F/Lt. Knapp) in position 5651N 1149E bombed 2 motorvessels 2.000 & 1.500 tons course 360/8 knots. The attack was blind, owing to weather and no results were seen.
- At 01.56 hours Halifax ‘C’ from No. 58 Squadron (Captain F/O Watts) attacked 1 motorvessel 4.500 tons stationary/ NW in Sandefiord (5907N 1014E). The first bomb scored a direct hit amidships. No further results were seen due to evasive action.
- At 02.17 hours Halifax ‘U’ from No. 58 Squadron (Captain S/Ldr Howard) in position 5649N 1146E attacked 3 contacts of which 2 were probable ‘E’ Boats with 1 unidentified course 270/15 knots. No results were seen due to weather.
- At 02.45 hours Halifax ‘F’ from No. 58 Squadron (Captain F/Lt. Robinson) in position 5753N 1149E bombed 1 motorvessel 1.500/2.000 tons with 1 enemy vessel course 030/speed unknown. No results seen due to weather.

26. april 1945
At 00.30 hours Halifax ‘F’ from No. 502 Squadron (Captain F/Lt. Rush) in position 5713N 1043E bombed 1 motorvessel 3.000 tons course 290/10 knots. Straddle is claimed.
- At 02.10 hours Halifax ‘H’ from No. 58 Squadron (Captain F/Lt. MacFadyen) bombed 1 motorvessel 5.000 stationary/NW in Sandefiord. No results were seen, owing to evasive action.
- At 02.35 hours Halifax ‘D’ from No. 502 Squadron (Captain F/Lt. Johnston) in position 5640N 1125E bombed 1 motorvessel 3.000 tons with 1 enemy vessel and 1 unidentified course 330/8 knots. No results were seen owing to evasive action.
- At 02.45 hours Halifax ‘A’ from No. 502 Squadron (Captain F/O Mawdsley) attacked the floating dock in Sandefiord. The first two bombs burst with large red flash and a large fire with coulds of black smoke was observed.
- At 02.50 hours Halifax ‘U’ from No. 58 Squadron (Captain F/Lt. Bently) bombed 1 motorvessel 3.000 tons with 3 other smaller motorvessels moored in Porgrund Harbour. Bursts were seen along warf alongside motorvessel. No other results seen.
Losses:
- Halifax ‘O’ from No. 58 Squadron F/Lt. Holden and F/O Robson took off from Stornoway at 20.40 hours on the 25th on an A/S Patrol and failed to return. At 04.05 hours a flash report originated by ‘O’ from position 5805N 0821E was intercepted by ‘D’ from No. 502 Squadron.
Halifax JP330 (BY-O) fra No. 58 Squadron forsvandt uden spor. Besætning bestod af F/Lt E L Holden, F/Lt J A Burkitt, F/O T C Robson, F/Sgt. A M Bagnall, Sgt. S Stubbs F/O J M Larkin, F/O J R Liddell, F/Sgt. A F Juby og F/Sgt. K J Henderson.
Skagerrak: Hans Lody und Friedrich Ihn im Geleitdienst eingesetzt, dabei Luftangriffe abgewehrt.

27. april 1945
- At 01.20 hours Halifax ‘B’ from No. 502 Squadron (Captain F/Lt. Mair) bombed 1 motorvessel 4/5.000 tons in position 5710N 1043E course 210/5 knots. No hits were actually seen, but a long column of whitish smoke was observed issuing from midway between amidships and stern.
- At 01.38 hours Halifax ‘N’ from No. 58 Squadron (Captain P/O Rasmussen) in position 5711N 1047E bombed 1 motorvessel 3.000 tons with 2 possible enemy vessels and 3 unidentified course 175/10 knots. No results were seen.
- At 01.43 hours Halifax ‘A’ from No. 502 Squadron (Captain F/Lt. Powell) attacked 1 motorvessel 3.500 tons in position 5709N 1052E course 110/8 knots. Bombs fell 50 yards to port of vessel.
Skagerrak: Vom Oslofjord nach Süden zum Kattegat marchierende Transproter durch Hans Lody, Theodor Riedel, T17 und T19 gesichert.

28. april 1945
Skagerrak: Friedrich Ihn als Sicherung bei einem nach Norden zum Oslofjord marchierenden Geleit.

29 april 1945
Skagerrak: Hans Lody als Sicherung bei einem zum Oslofjord gehenden Geleit.

[Felix C]

My sincere thanks for the above

Great post, great research! I was on a troopship in the convoy that was attacked on April 14th--- my first sea voyage. I've forgotten the name of the ship I was on, any ideas on how to find it? Thanks!

[Felix C]

How clear was the radar image? Something we think of when we see a modern weather radar scan as in the local television news?

[Nick Beale]

Originally Posted by OpiWalter

Great post, great research! I was on a troopship in the convoy that was attacked on April 14th--- my first sea voyage. I've forgotten the name of the ship I was on, any ideas on how to find it? Thanks!

You could try searching on this site: http://convoyweb.org.uk/