Would a steam-powered aircraft need supercharging?

Would a large aircraft using Besler steam engines need superchargers to feed its boilers at altitude?

It would need enough combustion air, but the practical benefit of supercharging at 5,000 to 8,000 feet remains disputed; gradual pressure buildup and climbing would also cost fuel and time.

The proposed aircraft uses several Besler-type steam engines in a large flying wing. Its fuel-burning boilers would still need air at altitude, making the supply of combustion air part of the design problem. The benefit of supercharging at the clarified altitude of about 5,000 to 8,000 feet is disputed because driving the compressor also consumes power. One proposed operating method is to build steam pressure at low altitude and climb gradually. That would require additional fuel and time, and the available information does not establish the aircraft's performance.