Collection: Dambusters

“Operation Chastise” was an attack on German dams carried out on 16–17 May 1943 by Royal Air Force No. 617 Squadron. 19 aircraft carrying 133 aircrew took part in the mission that was spread across three waves. Of the 19 aircraft, 8 failed to return resulting in the deaths of 53 aircrew and 3 being taken as prisoners. This collection represents the aircraft that took part in the first wave.