The secrecy surrounding the Norden bombsight and the defensive tactics of B-17 bombers during World War II were influenced by a combination of operational strategy, technology, and the nature of aerial combat.
**1. Keeping the Norden Bombsight a Secret:**
The Norden bombsight, which was capable of highly accurate bomb targeting, was considered one of the most classified pieces of technology used by the U.S. during WWII. Despite many B-17 Flying Fortress bombers being shot down by German fighters, the exact mechanics and effectiveness of the bombsight were largely kept secret for several reasons. First, even though bombers were shot down, the Germans rarely had the chance to inspect the wreckage thoroughly. B-17s often flew in tight formations, and many were lost over enemy territory, making it difficult for the Germans to capture intact planes or sensitive equipment. Additionally, the Norden bombsight was only one part of the broader bombing strategy, and its importance was kept as a closely guarded secret. The Allies also employed disinformation tactics, often emphasizing other aspects of the bombing campaign to divert attention away from the bombsight's significance.
**2. B-17s Defending Each Other:**
As for B-17 bombers not shooting each other out of the sky while defending themselves, it came down to the tactical formation and coordination between the bombers. The B-17s flew in tight formations, typically in groups of 12 or more, known as "combat boxes." These formations were designed to maximize mutual defense. Each bomber was equipped with multiple .50 caliber machine guns, strategically placed to cover different sectors of the sky. The idea was that the firepower from all the bombers combined would create a dense "wall of lead," making it difficult for enemy fighters to attack without getting hit. Pilots and gunners were trained to avoid friendly fire by adhering to strict firing rules and by ensuring that only the most immediate threats were engaged. This system, though not perfect, allowed for effective defense against attacking German fighters, though losses still occurred due to the sheer volume of enemy aircraft and the dangers of flying in heavily contested airspace.
In conclusion, the combination of secrecy through operational procedures, tight formations, and careful coordination allowed the Allies to protect the Norden bombsight’s critical secrets and defend the B-17s from German fighters despite the high risk and loss of life during bombing raids.