Operation Hydra – the air raid on Peenemünde – was the most prominent example of scientists’ war: based on analysis of intelligence gaining from Resistance sources inside the Third Reich and interpretation of photographs delivered by fast-developing air reconnaissance, aiming against highly secret research and evaluation centre, where weapon which could decisively move the scale of World War II to Axis were designed and tested. The entire force of RAF Bomber Command using its last technical (Windows) and tactical (Master Bomber, time and distance bombing run) innovations was thrown in a “press on regardless” attempt to destroy small research facility whose inhabitants worked day and night to deliver their Fuehrer the “retaliation weapon” – V-1 pilotless bombs and V-2 rockets.

Martin Middlebrook, author of “The Peenemünde Raid”, made a real masterpiece gathering the fascinating memoirs of participants of that memorable events (Allied and German) and meticulously studying archive documents. His book is an invaluable part of history of Strategic Bomber Offensive.

Mykhaylo Akimov