Hacker Newsnew | past | comments | ask | show | jobs | submitlogin

Various infantry bunkers laying about are also a reminder, but what really gets me are the bonkers last-ditch defensive weapons you can still find in places, like preset positions for flame fougasse batteries:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Flame_fougasse

They speak to the particular combination of desperation, urgency, and ingenuity found in the UK at that time.



I think we are seeing similar tactics and mobilization in Ukraine. They had to invent and be practical on the battlefield without the overwhelming numbers of the Russian empire.


IIRC Churchill was prepared to use chemical weapons as well. He wasn't messing around.


The Germans were prepared to also. It would have been horrible on both sides.


The Germans didn't use chemical weapons, even when Germany was invaded.


To be specific, I meant that they were prepared to use them in the invasion of Britain.


I don't think I've seen anything about that. Do you have any links?


'Fraid not. I picked it up from many years of reading everything about Seelöwe that I could get my hands on.




Consider applying for YC's Fall 2025 batch! Applications are open till Aug 4

Guidelines | FAQ | Lists | API | Security | Legal | Apply to YC | Contact

Search: