Discover the Untold Heroism of The Royal Flying Corps in the Battle of the Somme 1916

The Battle of the Somme, fought during World War I, was one of the bloodiest battles in history. The Royal Flying Corps (RFC), the precursor to the Royal Air Force, played a significant role in this pivotal conflict. In this article, we delve into the untold heroism of the RFC and their contributions to the Battle of the Somme in 1916.

The Formation of the Royal Flying Corps

Before we dive into their involvement in the Battle of the Somme, let's explore the origins of the Royal Flying Corps. Established in 1912, the RFC was the first-ever military air force in the world. Comprising a combination of aircraft, personnel, and airfields, the RFC was tasked with conducting aerial reconnaissance, gathering intelligence, and providing support to ground troops.

The Role of the Royal Flying Corps in the Battle of the Somme

In 1916, the Battle of the Somme commenced, with the British and French forces launching a major offensive against the German army. The RFC's primary role during this battle was to provide aerial reconnaissance, target spotting, and aerial bombardment. Equipped with various aircraft, including fighters, bombers, and observation planes, the RFC played a crucial role in shifting the tide of the battle.

Somme Success: The Royal Flying Corps and the Battle of The Somme 1916

by Peter Hart (Kindle Edition)

4.5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	20200 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	407 pages
Lending	:	Enabled
Hardcover	:	310 pages
Item Weight	:	1.38 pounds
Dimensions	:	5.98 x 0.81 x 9.02 inches

FREE

Aerial Reconnaissance and Target Spotting

One of the key contributions of the RFC was its ability to conduct aerial reconnaissance and gather vital intelligence about enemy positions. By flying over the front lines, the RFC pilots observed and photographed German trenches, artillery positions, and troop movements. This information proved invaluable to the British and French forces, allowing them to plan their attacks more effectively.

Aerial Bombardment

The RFC also played a significant role in aerial bombardment during the Battle of the Somme. Bombers would target German positions, dropping bombs to disrupt enemy communications, supply lines, and troop concentrations. This aerial assault, combined with the ground offensive, inflicted heavy casualties and dealt a blow to German morale.

The Challenges Faced by the Royal Flying Corps

Operating in the skies during World War I was a perilous task, and the RFC faced numerous challenges during the Battle of the Somme. The German air force, known as the Luftstreitkräfte, posed a constant threat, engaging the RFC in fierce dogfights. The RFC also had to contend with anti-aircraft fire from the ground, making their missions even more dangerous.

The Growing Importance of Aerial Warfare

The Battle of the Somme, and World War I as a whole, marked a turning point in the history of warfare, with aerial warfare playing an increasingly vital role. The contributions of the RFC demonstrated the importance of air power in modern warfare and paved the way for the establishment of the Royal Air Force in 1918.

The Royal Flying Corps proved its mettle in the Battle of the Somme 1916, showcasing the bravery and skill of its pilots. By providing aerial reconnaissance, target spotting, and aerial bombardment, the RFC played a crucial role in the allied victory. Their contributions marked a significant milestone in the development of aerial warfare, leaving a lasting legacy in the history of aviation and military strategy.

Somme Success: The Royal Flying Corps and the Battle of The Somme 1916

by Peter Hart (Kindle Edition)

4.5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	20200 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	407 pages
Lending	:	Enabled
Hardcover	:	310 pages
Item Weight	:	1.38 pounds
Dimensions	:	5.98 x 0.81 x 9.02 inches

FREE

This history of the Royal Flying Corps during the Battle of Somme offers a comprehensive firsthand look at WWI military aviation.

During the summer and fall of 1916, high above the blood-soaked trenches of the Somme, the Royal Flying Corps was engaging in one of the first great aerial battles of history. Even in those pioneering days of aerial warfare, primitive aircraft and the brave men who flew them were proving vital. Before the battle, photographic reconnaissance aircraft from both sides were desperately trying to map the opposition's deployment; artillery spotting aircraft were locating hidden targets; and bombing raids had become standard.

Somme Success provides a detailed description of all facets of air operations of the period using the firsthand accounts of those who were there. It describes how the Royal Flying Corps answered the Fokker scourge in Airco DH.2 single-seater planes and, later, the ubiquitous F.E.2b two-seaters—the plane that shot down German 'Ace' Max Immelmann.

Having conceded air supremacy to the Royal Flying Corps early in the Somme Offensive, the German Air Service launched an aerial counterattack during August and September. The Albatross single-seaters of the elite scout squadron proved superior to any allied aircraft. When German fighter pilot Manfred von Richthofen—the Red Baron—took to the skies, a new period of German supremacy began.