German 'Elektron' Bomb

[Guest Ian Bowbrick]

I remember studying the 'Elektron bomb briefly in my service days (German incendiary device, constructed of magnesium - you use water to put out the flames and it gets fiercer) - does anyone know if they were ever used on London or Paris, or was it developed too late?

Cheers - Ian

[HERITAGE PLUS]

Ian

I don't know when the Elektron Bomb was first introduced. It, an improved versions, was certainly widely used in WW2 - and on Bristol where I live to great effect.

The info (WW2) on this site may be of interest to you:

http://www.fishponds.freeuk.com/nluftbri5.htm

Dave

[Guest Ian Bowbrick]

Dave,

Thanks for that.

The focus of my enquiry was its role in WW1, but the technical data on that site is really informative.

Thanks - Ian

[gem22]

Ian

Try this website I think it's what you want.

http://www.vectorsite.net/twbomb1.html#m2

I had come across a reference to Thermite as an incendiary in an American autobiography called Gas and Flame. That struck a chord.

Garth

[Guest Pete Wood]

The 2.2 lb (pound) Elektron bomb was available for use in July 1918. The Gothas and Zeppelins were supposed to use them in August, but at the last minute the order to use them over England was cancelled - for fear of reprisals.

I don't know if they were used in France, though.