Why were Swordfish observers in such danger during long-range torpedo operations?
Short answerThe extended-range tank sat in the rear cockpit and could leak, leaving the observer or air gunner surrounded by aviation fuel while exposed to combat damage and tracer fire.
NotesSwordfish observers and telegraphist-air-gunners faced a particularly alarming risk on long-range torpedo missions. The additional fuel tank occupied the observer's cockpit, forcing that crewman back beside the air gunner. Leakage around the feed connection accumulated in the tub-like rear cockpit before draining onward, leaving the men surrounded by aviation fuel while operating a machine gun. Tracer fire or combat damage could therefore turn the range extension into a fatal fire hazard. The aircraft's endurance requirement imposed a severe and very personal design compromise.