Role of Airships in World War II

After the terrible experience of airships in World War I, Germany decided to use airplanes instead of airships, believing that it was an obsolete technology. On the other hand, Japanese took it as a golden opportunity for using airships in the war. Similarly, United States used 10 non-rigid airships in World War II. Many sophisticated airships were developed for World War II and were used throughout the war. Names of most commonly used airships in WWII were 4 K-class: K-2, K-3, K-4 , K-5. 2 TC-class ships were also specifically built and designed for the war. Although, there were many other airships like L-class: L-1, L-2, L-3, they were rarely used.

K-class and TC-class played a vital role in WWII against the Japanese and German submarines. These airships were highly suitable for combat and range. Realizing the advantage of airships, many countries decided to use them. You will be amazed to know that approximately 1,400 airship pilots and 3,000 support crew members participating in a rigorous training program. United States was the most active country in the making of these airships – also known as blimps. The most commonly known companies are “Goodyear Factory” and “Akron, Ohio”

The United States Navy developed 154 airships in the short span of 3 years, including blimps of G-class, L-Class, M-class and K-class. Initially, these airships were used only for the purpose of patrol and convoy escort. Later on, they were utilized for many other purposes. Other uses of the airships include aerophoto reconnaissance, parachute unit transport, and deployment, cargo and personnel transportation, naval mine laying, mine sweeping, etc. These airships proved superb in performing their duties that raised the efficiency level of United States.

From1944-1945, United States decided to attack the U-boats of Germany using the eight airships of the K-series. K-123, K-130, K-109, K-134, K-101, K-112, K-89, & K-114. Only 1 airship was brought down by the U-boat. These airships proved to be superb in performance and became extremely popular. Moreover, they were helpful in protecting convoys. Towards the end of the War, these airships were mostly used for attacking purposes. According to a survey, more than 37,554 flights were taken by these airships.

However, towards the end of WWII, the amount of airships that were built were equally destroyed. According to officials, more than 532 airships were destroyed in the war. After WWII, a lot of efforts were made in the improvement of these airships so that they can be used more efficiently in the future. Modern day airships or blimps are now designed with precision and accuracy with the best technology of handling them. The performance of these airships were remarkable and rendered a lasting impression.