What was a major issue faced by strategic bombing missions against Germany from 1942-1943?

The major issue faced by strategic bombing missions against Germany from 1942-1943 was the lack of long-range fighter escort. During this period, Allied bombers often operated without adequate protection from fighter aircraft, making them highly vulnerable to German interceptors. The bombers, such as the B-17 and B-24, were heavily armed but faced significant losses due to enemy fighters. As a result, the effectiveness of the bombing campaigns was severely compromised, as the bombers had to take evasive actions or fly at higher altitudes to avoid engaging with enemy aircraft, which reduced their bombing accuracy.

The importance of escort fighters became apparent as the war progressed. The introduction of long-range escorts, like the P-51 Mustang, later in the war drastically improved bomber survival rates and bombing effectiveness, demonstrating that fighter support was crucial for the success of strategic bombing missions. The focus on developing and deploying these escort fighters became a key tactical priority for the Allies as they aimed to mitigate losses and enhance the overall impact of their bombing campaigns against Germany.