RAF Republic Thunderbolt fighter-bombers use napalm against Kangaw, and firebombs are tested at Cox's Bazaar, India (Bangladesh).

Kangaw, on the Arakan coast, Burma; A Thunderbolt flying at low altitude drops a bomb that explodes in a sheet of flame. A mushroom-shaped cloud of black smoke rises. More aircraft drop similar bombs. At Cox's Bazaar, India (now Bangladesh), napalm bombs are tested with spectacular explosions and thick black smoke.

Notes

Aircraft in the latter portion of this film are Thunderbolt Mk II's, probably of RAF 30 Squadron.

According to the RAF's Narrative of the Campaigns in the Far East Volume IV, operations in support of amphibious landings at Kangaw saw the dropping of 750 tons of bombs and 17,700 gallons of napalm in a week. Landings were begun on 22/1/1945 by 3 Commando Brigade (Royal Marines) and followed up by 51st Brigade of 25th Indian Division. See reference below.

The RAF's in-house newsreel 'The Gen' no. 15 includes a demonstration of these firebombs, although the footage used appears to be different. See related items.

Date from slates.