A bit of respect

[Airspeed]

I've finished reading a 1942 publication entitled: "Bomber Command Continues".

In earlier days, I'd virtually dismissed the Blenheim and particularly the Hampden as outdated and ineffective.
I felt rather sorry for the aircrews who had to operate them, and still do.
They were poorly defended, and no match for enemy fighters.
I was surprised to read that the Hampden carried the same bomb load as the Wellington, was faster and more manoueverable.
I guess that the construction method placed limits on fitting additional guns, which may have helped.
Anyway, overall, I've found a new respect for these aircraft, which carried the offensive until well into 1942.