REPORT ON OPERATION "FLYING SAUCER"

This document is a secret report dated 24th July 1953, authored by Group Captain D.W. Colquhoun of the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF), No. 82 (Bomber) Wing, Amberley. The report details the results of 'Operation FLYING SAUCER,' an air defence exercise conducted in the Sydney area on the 20th and 21st of June 1953. The primary objective of the operation was to exercise the Air Defence Organisation of Sydney using a force of six Lincoln bombers carrying out simulated attacks. The report includes appendices covering concentration times on target, photographic bombing results, and gunnery results. The document outlines the navigation techniques used, noting the reliance on H2S radar and the challenges faced in maintaining concentration times due to fighter interception. A significant portion of the report is dedicated to the evaluation of evasive tactics. The Wing Weapons Officer concluded that severe evasive action by Lincoln aircraft was neither successful nor desirable, as it led to significant bombing errors, the toppling of gyros, and difficulties in turret operation. It was recommended that aircraft maintain tactical tracks without deviation while en route to the target. The report also highlights issues with equipment unserviceability, including radar (Lucero and H2S) and photographic equipment. The document concludes with recommendations for future exercises, emphasizing the need for better training, the importance of maintaining formation, and the necessity of providing bomber units with at least 24 hours' notice for proper briefing and organization. Despite the name 'Operation FLYING SAUCER,' the content is strictly focused on military training, bomber tactics, and air defence procedures.