The new DH4 has recently been supplied to the squadron. Two pilots take them out on a bombing run. Unfortunately they encounter two Albatros D.IIIs, and so they cannot fully concentrate on getting to know the new plane and its attributes.
Fortunately, the first engagement with the enemy is one on one, although only just. The other Albatros is lurking close by.
Photo 529
This is a tough introduction to a new plane! The Albatros comes straight on and collides with the DH4.
Photo 727
At least the rear gunner can inflict some pain as the planes leave each other.
Photo 959
The second DH4 comes in for some attention from the other Albatros. But also receives some attention.
Photos 207 357 721
The Albatros switches attention to the other DH4, but they both keep up the attack on it.
Photo 953
Now it’s one on one – an Albatros and a DH4 copping damage.
Photo 323
The fire was too much for the Albatros, and it heads for the ground.
Photo 624
The remaining planes circle, but keep in the blind-spot of the enemy. Well, at least for a while.
Photo 108, 405
However, one of the DH4s successfully destroys the target on its first attempt.
Photo 415
But a successful bombing run does not make you immune to damage.
Photo 617, 706
They’re close; but they can only wave, because the injured observer can’t operate a gun, and the other gun is jammed.
Photo 000
With his gun now clear, the Albatros pilot exacts his revenge on the DH4 that bombed their depot – watching it spiral to the ground.
Photo 307
But there is still danger in the sky – from guns and planes.
Photo 549, 730
The second DH4 is down as a result of damage from the collision (Score on left). And the Albatros is badly damaged, but still flying (Score on right.)
Photo 018
The Entente carried out a successful bombing run, but lost two of its new aircraft. The Central Powers destroyed two aircraft, but didn’t prevent their depot from being bombed. A stalemate.
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