[ARC5] SCR-522 used for bomb release

[Taigh Ramey]

Thanks for the help with this. Here are two messages confirming that they
made a system in theatre using the SCR-522. 
 
The 340th BG did develop this method.  A radioman realized that there were
channels not being used and that a set-up could be put together that sent a
signal to all the planes in the box when the lead plane salvoed its bombs. 
Colonel Chapman and the radioman were both given a medal for this.  I have a
list of this and other B-25 improvements that the 340th made, I just need to
dig them out, scan them and send them off to you!
 
They used the VHF (SCR 522, the command set) radio which has many channels
available. The lead bombardier selected the channel and gave the information
to the other toggliers who followed his orders and set his radio up.  When
the bomb sight released the bombs, a signal was sent that was received by
the other planes.  If the togglier had selected the proper channel, and the
bomb release was properly hooked up with the SCR 522, the bombs were
released.  The 488th has a story about Bill Ozias, one of the better lead
bombardiers, who would give each box a different channel.  He was then able
to hit two targets (primary and then the alternate) when the other boxes did
not drop because he gave them the wrong info!   
 
Has anyone heard of other bombing uses of the SCR-522? I wonder what kind of
relay or connection was used to the bomb release system?


Thanks,
Taigh
 
Taigh Ramey
Proprietor, Vintage Aircraft
7432 C.E.Dixon Street
Stockton, California 95206
(209) 982-0273
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