Understanding the Nature of WW2 Air Combat: Did Fighter Pilots Target Pilots or the Aircraft?

Focal Points and Design in Fighter Aircraft

During World War II, the primary goal of fighter pilots was to hit their targets with their guns. However, the target was not just any part of the aircraft; it was the cockpit. The cockpit located near the center of the aircraft, where the pilot sits, is the most consistent area during maneuvers and has the smallest acceleration forces.

Strategic Targeting Choices

Given the vulnerability of the cockpit and the redundancy of engines and fuel tanks, enemy pilots often aimed for the cockpit. This strategic choice not only hit the pilot but also minimized the risk of damaging the aircraft's engines or fuel tanks, which could be redundant and self-sealing in many cases.

Challenges of Aiming in WW2 Air Combat

Air combat in World War II was incredibly chaotic and challenging. Pilots faced numerous obstacles such as turbulence, evasive maneuvers, and the difficulty in maintaining focus. Aircraft were often subjected to rapid and unpredictable movements, and pilots might be momentarily distracted or their line of sight blocked by their own aircraft.

The inherent chaos made it extremely difficult to aim accurately. Most pilots had to rely on opportunity. It took only five confirmed kills to become an 'ace' pilot, but not all pilots achieved this status. The majority relied on skill and luck to achieve even a single kill.

The Luftwaffe’s Preferred Tactics: Head-on Attacks

When faced with Allied bombers, particularly the US aircraft, Luftwaffe pilots often chose a head-on attack. This tactic was used because the front of US bombers was less well-armed initially, and the high closing speeds encountered during these attacks left gunners on the defensive.

The heavily glazed front of these bombers left the pilots and co-pilots exposed. A 20mm cannon shell striking the cockpit would have severe consequences. This tactic often led the bombers to take evasive action, which could disrupt coordinated formation attacks. The disruption of coordinated attacks could also confuse the attackers, making it harder to achieve a concentrated and successful attack.

Impact and Conclusion

The analysis of WW2 air combat reveals a complex interplay of strategic targeting, tactical execution, and the role of chance. While pilots aimed for the cockpit to take out the pilot, the broader objectives were to cause damage to the aircraft and disrupt the formation. The challenges and unpredictability of air combat meant that even the most skilled pilots relied heavily on opportunity and adaptability to achieve their objectives.

The history of WW2 air combat is a testament to the significant impact of technological advancements, strategic decisions, and the human element of skill and luck. Understanding these facets can provide valuable insights into the nature of aerial warfare and the struggles faced by pilots in one of the most intense and dynamic periods in military history.