During the pre-invasion of Britain Hitler explains, “Since, England, in spite of her hopeless military situation, show no signs of being ready to come to a compromise, I have decided to prepare a landing operation against England, and, if necessary to carry it out.” The German invasion plan was divided into three parts. First, the Luftwaffe was to try and remove the threat of the RAF within three weeks of deployment. Secondly, amphibious craft would make a night landing across the channel. Lastly, to support the landing paratroopers and armed gliders would attack across enemy lines. With the Germans almost at their doorstep, all England looked to the Royal Air Force. Both the English and the Germans realized that before the German armies could invade, the RAF would have to be eliminated. With this in mind, the Luftwaffe first probed for weaknesses by attacking targets in southern England and shipping. This was followed by attacks against RAF airfields and radar stations. The RAF, already badly weakened through having sent squadrons to France, was suffering heavily in the daily attacks on their airfields. Although fighting valiantly, losses of men and machines mounted, nearing a critical level. Relief came from an unexpected source. A German bomber accidentally bombed London prompting the RAF to attack Berlin. Hitler was incensed, ordering that the Luftwaffe now turn their attention to leveling London.With the Luftwaffe's attention now turned to London and other British cities, the heat was still not off the RAF. The elimination of Britain's still developing war industry could have dealt Britain a grave blow. Day after day the Luftwaffe came to bomb the docks, factories and infrastructure of the last bastion in Europe. Daily the RAF met the challenge. The stalwart defense during the day forced the Luftwaffe to attack at night. By the end of October, the Luftwaffe had exhausted itself. With it went the last chance o...
