Air Force Historical Research Agency Welcome to the Department of the Air Force (DAF) Legacy Vault

DAF Legacy Vault

We are excited to announce the development of a new digital space dedicated to showcasing the Department of the Air Force's (DAF) official archival records. This project highlights the rich and storied history of both the Air Force and Space Force, featuring historical records, artifacts, photographs, audio recordings, video documentation, and archival finding aids.

Although the page is currently under construction, our team is actively working to ensure it becomes a comprehensive and accessible resource for historians, researchers, veterans, and enthusiasts. We aim to make these valuable materials readily discoverable for those seeking insights into the DAF's contributions to our nation's history.

This initiative underscores our commitment to preserving and sharing the official ephemera of the Airmen and Guardians who have shaped the legacy of the skies and beyond. Updates will follow as the project progresses, and we look forward to unveiling more resources soon!

DAF History Publications

Air Power versus U-boats: Confronting Hitler's Submarine Menace in the European Theater
This document examines the critical role of air power in countering the German U-boat threat during World War II, particularly in the European theater. It details how the U.S. Army Air Forces contributed to antisubmarine warfare alongside the Royal Navy, the Royal Air Force Coastal Command, and the U.S. Navy, emphasizing the importance of aerial reconnaissance and long-range patrols in disrupting enemy submarine operations. The text discusses key tactical adaptations, including the deployment of B-24 Liberators equipped with radar and magnetic anomaly detection systems to locate and attack surfaced U-boats. It highlights pivotal campaigns such as air patrols over the Bay of Biscay and convoy escort missions in the North Atlantic, illustrating how air power forced German submarines to remain submerged for prolonged periods, reducing their effectiveness. The analysis also explores strategic bombing operations targeting submarine pens and manufacturing facilities, ultimately contributing to the diminished operational capacity of Hitler’s U-boat fleet. The document provides insight into the technological advancements, coordinated Allied strategies, and evolving aerial tactics that shaped the outcome of the Battle of the Atlantic.

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Photo by: A. Timothy Warnock |  VIRIN: AIRPOWER_VS_UBOATS.PDF