Lockheed Electra 12 and Aerial Reconnaissance

What made the Lockheed Electra 12 an ideal platform for reconnaissance before WWII?

• Its large size

• Its slow speed

• Its inconspicuous livery

• Its military markings

Why was photo reconnaissance crucial during warfare in the 1930s?

• It was cheaper than other forms of intelligence

• It provided real-time video footage

• It allowed for mapping of trench networks

• It was the only form of reconnaissance available

What innovation is Sydney Cotton credited with that improved pilot equipment?

• The first parachute

• The sidcot suit

• The first oxygen mask

• The first aviation helmet

How did Sydney Cotton's aircraft modifications aid in reconnaissance missions?

• By painting the aircraft in camouflage

• By adding more passenger seats

• By installing downward-looking cameras

• By reducing the aircraft's weight

What was a significant challenge faced by the RAF with their reconnaissance cameras?

• Cameras produced blurry images

• Cameras were not available

• Cameras would freeze at high altitudes

• Cameras were too heavy

Why did the use of civilian aircraft for reconnaissance become impractical during WWII?

• They couldn't fly high enough

• They were not allowed over hostile territory

• They were too slow

• They were easily shot down

What aircraft did Sydney Cotton advocate for use in reconnaissance missions during WWII?

• The Westland Lysander

• The Bristol Blenheim

• The Spitfire

• The Hawker Hurricane

What was a key advantage of the Spitfire in reconnaissance missions?

• It was cheaper to operate

• It could carry more passengers

• It had a longer range

• It was faster and could fly higher

What was one of the myths surrounding Sydney Cotton's work with the Electra?

• He never took any photographs

• He flew without a co-pilot

• He only flew over friendly territories

• He used three cameras in the fuselage

What was the outcome of Sydney Cotton's reconnaissance efforts with the Spitfire?

• He was captured by enemy forces

• He was unable to gather any useful intelligence

• He covered twice the distance with no losses

• He lost all his aircraft