Q&A · 56:38-1:00:21

How radar and diving fighters could meet Japan's paper bombers

Radar-directed fighters could wait near altitude and dive on a G10N or Fugaku once it descended far enough to make an effective bombing run.

Question

What could the Royal Navy use to intercept the Nakajima G10N or Fugaku?

Short answer

Radar would place high-flying fighters for a diving interception when the bomber descended to an altitude from which it could bomb effectively.

Notes

The proposed Japanese ultra-long-range bombers had impressive paper specifications, but neither reached service. Had such aircraft appeared, Royal Navy air defense would have used radar to position Sea Furies or Firebrands for a diving interception when the bombers descended to a useful release altitude. Remaining near the claimed maximum ceiling would make accurate bombing highly doubtful.