IMPROVED MACHINES

Wairarapa Times-Age, 9 March 1940, Page 5

IMPROVED MACHINES

Instancing improvements in existing types of service machines, the Minister stated that not only armaments had been continuously improved but also performance—the long-nosed Blenheim had far better navigational facilities and a 50 per cent increase in range over the earlier models, while the top speed of the Spitfire had been increased 10 per cent. “It can safely be said that the fighting strength of the R.A.F. has been increased at least 100 per cent during the last 12 months.” he declared. “In addition, we have been able to give substantial help to our friends abroad.”

Germany, no doubt, had been expanding and improving her air force at the same time, but she had not been without difficulties, and many of her aircraft must have proved disappointing in operational experience. “I therefore take the view with some confidence,” he said, “that even on a numerical basis the output of aircraft now accruing to us in France is today in excess of Germany's—and as I have pointed out, there are other factors besides numbers.” But Germany had a strong and powerful air force and certainly could inflict much damage. The Minister admitted the impossibility of preventing aerial penetration, and instanced R.A.F. flights over the length and breadth of Germany. He concluded. “If and when serious attacks are made on this country considerable damage may be caused, but we need have no doubt that our people will endure it with the same high courage that other peoples have recently shown. Moreover, we will be sure that the powerful and efficient air defence organisation that we have built up will take heavy toll of'the enemy and that our bomber force for their part will he ready and able to hit hard and often and keep on hitting.”