Existing comment:
The Strategic Bombing of Japan:
In 1944, the U.S. began deploying a new bomber in the Pacific. Able to carry 5,000 pounds of bombs 3,200 miles, the giant B-29 Superfortress could reach Japan from American bases in China and the central Pacific. Soon the war would enter a new phase as the U.S. began a strategic bombing campaign. Air advocates believed the bombers could end the war.
The offensive started in June 1944 from bases in China. But logistics and mechanical problems hampered the effort and Japan soon captured advanced U.S. airfields.
The campaign would have greater success in the central Pacific, where hundreds of B-29s prepared to strike Japan from new bases in the Mariana Islands. The Marianas-based raids began in November. Results were disappointing at first. The bombers flew daytime raids aimed at "precision bombing" of targets. But jet stream winds, cloud cover, and poor training and facilities foiled their efforts. In frustration, Army Air Force Commander H. H. "Hap" Arnold appointed Major General Curtis LeMay to direct the air campaign. In early 1945, LeMay ended "precision bombing" and ordered a new approach: nighttime incendiary raids. The target: Japan's cities. Constructed largely of wood, they would be incinerated by giant firestorms caused by American firebombs. LeMay hoped to eliminate industrial plants in urban centers. But to do this he would deliberately level wide areas. |