Page 10 - RAFEW A

th
Based on the unsuccessful Avro Manchester the Lancaster was first flown on the 9 January
1941. It was clearly a winner from the start and was without doubt the most effective heavy
bomber in service in the European Theatre of operations during WW2. The Lancaster handled
well without vices and was immensely strong. It was capable of carrying a heavier bomb load
than any other bomber at that time and had good range.

103 Squadron was equipped with Lancasters from November 1942 until the Squadron
disbanded in November 1945. 576 Squadron was equipped with Lancasters from its inception in
November 1943 until it was disbanded in September 1945 Whilst equipped with the Lancaster
103 Squadron flew 317 bombing operations and 27 mine laying operations detailing 4536 sorties
for the loss of 158 aircraft on operations, including those that crashed in the UK on departure or
return. In addition 7 aircraft were lost on non-operational flights and 1 in a ground accident.

Whilst equipped with the Lancaster 576 Squadron flew 189 bombing operations and 2 mine
aying operations detailing 2788 sorties for the loss of 75 aircraft on operations, including those
that crashed in the UK on departure or return. In addition 1 aircraft was lost on a training flight.

….................