Air Raid on Freiburg im Breisgau
Summary
This French air raid on Freiburg marked a change in doctrine: strategic civilian and military objectives deep inside Germany were now targeted. The operation, conducted by bombers departing from Nancy, aimed at railways, depots, and workshops. It demonstrated the growing projection capabilities of French aviation.
Historical context
French high command ordered air reprisals in response to German bombardments on Bar-le-Duc and Nancy. Freiburg, an important transit station toward the front, became a priority target.
Tactics
Night flight at high altitude, rapid bomb release, immediate withdrawal. Absence of night fighters made defence difficult. The attack was brief but symbolically powerful.
Consequences
This raid contributed to the progressive escalation of total war. It led to reinforcement of German air defences and in turn justified German raids on French cities.