Halifaxes of No. 35 Squadron PFF at Graveley October 1942
Halifaxes in the Pathfinder Force
- The idea of a specialized target-finding force to lead the main bomber streams was first endorsed in 1941.
- This idea was originally met with resistance, but on August 15, 1942, the Path Finder Force (PFF) was established.
- The PFF was formed under the command of Australian Wg Cdr Don Bennett, who was a former Halifax squadron CO.
- Five squadrons made up the new Pathfinders, one from each of the Groups.
- The Halifax squadron that was incorporated into the PFF was 35 Sqn. They were based at Linton-on-Ouse.
- Later, in April 1943, 405 (Vancouver) Sqn, RCAF, joined 35 Sqn as part of the PFF.
- No 35 Squadron was fitted with H2S to improve the accuracy of the raids.
- The two Halifax squadrons were the only ones to participate in PFF operations until they were re-equipped with Lancasters. 35 Sqn was re-equipped in March 1944, and 405 Sqn was re-equipped in August 1943.
- The PFF’s later success was dependent on techniques, but aids to blind bombing were essential. These included:
- Oboe, a ground-controlled navigation aid.
- H2S, a radar bombing aid carried in the aircraft. The scanner was carried in a Perspex cupola under the rear fuselage. Two Halifaxes were used for the first test flights of the H2S equipment in April 1942. By mid-January 1943, No 35 Squadron had received nine of the first production H2S sets for its Halifaxes.
- Special target indicators.
- The PFF was later given group status as 8 Group.