The use of Flares over Targets.

[Steve Smith]

Hi,

When did the use of flares to illuminate a target start. Currently reading ORB entires of Jan / Feb 1941 where flares were carried and dropped by 'Raid Leaders'. Trying to establish what group used them first, my initial research suggests 3 Group.

Any pointers.

TIA

Steve

[Adriano Baumgartner]

Steve,

I remember reading "Bomber Pilot" of Sir. L. Cheshire, OM, VC, etc...and if memory does not fail me, they all (not specialized crews or aces) carried out those Flares to illuminate targets at night.

Can have a look at 77 Squadron ORB and be back soon, to check if at that stage they also carried out those flares...but, from memory, my answer would be yes...

A

[Icare9]

Can you just clarify if you mean flares such as the flash bombs for identifying where an aircraft had bombed, or Target illumination flares such as Wanganui?
Perhaps https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Target_indicator will clarify my question

[Steve Smith]

Originally Posted by Icare9

Can you just clarify if you mean flares such as the flash bombs for identifying where an aircraft had bombed, or Target illumination flares such as Wanganui?
Perhaps https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Target_indicator will clarify my question

This is pre-PFF circa 1940/1941. The use of 'flares' is a general term as reported in the squadron, station and group ORB for No.3 Group.

Regards

Steve