Dive bombers attract growing concern in the 1930s because their approach from above can avoid some of a ship's defensive fire. Bomb hits can start fires or prevent a ship carrying out its mission even when they do not sink it. A single bomb has a relatively low chance of sinking a large ship, while a torpedo can admit water directly. Both attack methods demand predictable flying at important moments. Torpedo aircraft need a low, level run, and dive bombers need an orderly approach and coordinated dive to maintain support and aim.
Notable Point · 54:45-1:00:16
Dive-bomber mission kills and the danger of torpedoes
The dive-bomber threat centres on disabling ships from above, while torpedo bombers threaten them with flooding below the waterline.