Norway still relied on Fokker C.V light bombers first purchased in 1926. Its Gloster Gladiators suited regional conditions, although they were too few and could not match German fighters individually. Norway's distances and the range limits of German fighters nevertheless gave the Gladiators a useful role against bombers. That opportunity depended on keeping Norwegian airfields from being seized. The Sea Gladiator's continued use in the Mediterranean illustrates why the type could still contribute in 1940, even as newer aircraft overtook it.
Notable Point · 38:02-39:46
Gladiators could still defend Norway if its airfields held
Norway's Gladiators could threaten German bombers beyond their fighter escorts' reach, provided Norwegian forces kept control of the airfields.