All three observers did their work, making brief notes, and rough maps,
as they flew over the fortifications. One of them, using a special
camera with a telephoto lens, secured a series of photographs from a
height of 4000 feet.
But the point of the test was this: when the three observers had
returned safely to their starting-point, their reports and maps were
compared with the exact details of the fortifications, which were in the
hands of the Commander of the air-corps.
The result was instructive. Without any previous knowledge of the
changes which had been made in the fortifications reconnoitred, the
three observers had been able to indicate, with clearness, the position
of all the defences. From their material, indeed, it was found possible
to prepare a map which corresponded with that previously provided by the
officer in charge of the fortifications.
The test was considered a very effective one. It showed that an aerial
observer could—even when at a considerable altitude—carry out a
reconnaissance with accuracy, and prepare maps which could compare
favourably with those drawn up at leisure, and as a result of detailed
survey work carried out on the spot.
As regards the reconnoitring flights carried out by the officer-airmen
during the manœuvres, there is not a great deal to be said, for the
reason that they were uniformly successful. The Commanders-in-Chief
stated what they required, and the airmen carried out their orders.
With the information thus provided for them, both Commanders-in-Chief
found it necessary, more than once, to alter their plans.
Not one day, but practically every day, the airmen were able to carry
out their appointed tasks, and their work of reconnaissance became an
adjunct which could be definitely relied upon.
II. Work in the German manœuvres—An instance of the utility of
air-scouts—Reconnoitring from high altitudes.
In the German autumn manœuvres, 1911, the aeroplane may be said to have
made its first practical appearance in connection with military
operations in this country; and, here again, complete success marked the
tests. One instance, regarding these German manœuvres, is forthcoming of
the manner in which vitally-important information may be obtained by
reconnoitring airmen.
The Commander of the Red forces, suspecting some definite move on the
part of his enemy on a certain morning, sent out several aerial
observers. They performed a successful flight, and returned quickly with
the information that a large body of the Blue troops was beginning to
advance against the Red right.
Taking instant action, upon the receipt of this intelligence, the Red
Commander pushed forward a very large body of men to a point of
strategic importance, and so was able to checkmate, very neatly, the
advance of the Blue troops.
Public-domain text, read in full here on John Shaqi.
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