File talk:Submarine attack (AWM 304949).jpg

Page contents not supported in other languages.
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Can this photograph be authenticated? Is it an actual combat image or a diorama? I ask because:

(1) from the angle of the photograph, it appears that it must have been taken by a very low-flying aircraft approach the U-boat from behind on its port side.

(2) almost certainly this would have to be an enemy (Allied) aircraft attacking the U-boat; an Axis aircraft would have no reason to buzz the U-boat in the midst of a battle. An Axis aircraft would certainly be engaging the unseen Allied aircraft bombing the U-boat.

(3) the U-boats anti-aircraft guns are not aimed at the incoming aircraft taking the photograph, they appear to be aimed in the direction of the bombing aircraft and the crew does not seem concerned with the aircraft approaching from behind.

(4) an Allied aircraft making such a risky approach on the U-boat would likely be doing so only to attempt to inflict damage on the U-boat but there is no evidence that the aircraft is strafing the conning tower.

Perhaps I'm wrong but I'm just wondering about the authenticity of the photograph. I hope that's a valid use of this page, otherwise feel free to delete my comments.