Original German WWII Luftwaffe Flight Map of Western Europe and Balkans – Dated 1940 Original Items

Original Item: Only One Available. In the 1920s and 1930s, airpower theorists such as Giulio Douhet and Billy Mitchell claimed that air forces could win wars, obviating the need for land and sea combat. It was thought that “the bomber will always get through” and could not be resisted, particularly at night. Industry, seats of government, factories and communications could be destroyed, depriving an opponent of the means to make war. Bombing civilians would cause a collapse of morale and a loss of production in the remaining factories. Democracies, where public opinion was allowed, were thought particularly vulnerable. The RAF and the United States Army Air Corps (USAAC) adopted much of this apocalyptic thinking. The policy of RAF Bomber Command became an attempt to achieve victory through the destruction of civilian will, communications and industry.

The Luftwaffe took a cautious view of strategic bombing and the The Oberkommando der Luftwaffe (OKL) did not oppose the strategic bombardment of industries or cities. It believed it could greatly affect the balance of power on the battlefield by disrupting production and damaging civilian morale. OKL did not believe air power alone could be decisive and the Luftwaffe did not adopt an official policy of the deliberate bombing of civilians until 1942.

Maps such as this one would have been vital for the Luftwaffe in navigating and target selection. The map itself is dated 1940 and could very well have been used during The Blitz bombing campaign against the UK in 1940 and 1941.

The map measures 35” x 31” and appears to be of vinyl construction. These maps were printed on vinyl or the early “soft laminate” to make them not only waterproof but more durable and able to withstand repeated folds when not in use.

The map is in lovely condition with minor staining, but does show signs of being used. There is no major damage and all colors and markings are still easily distinguishable and able to be read.

Comes more than ready to be displayed!