The Poltava Affair A Russian Warning: An American Tragedy
Author: Glenn Infield
Publisher: Macmillan Co NY
Edition: First
Cover: Hardcover w/Dust Cover
Published: 1973
History
Synopsis: Glenn Infield's revealing account examines one of World War II's most controversial and little-known episodes, when American bombers operated from Soviet airfields during shuttle bombing missions between Italy and the Soviet Union. This detailed investigation chronicles the complex negotiations, operational challenges, and ultimate tragedy that characterized this ambitious but flawed attempt at Soviet-American military cooperation. Infield documents the strategic rationale behind Operation Frantic, which aimed to extend the range of American bombing operations by using Soviet bases for refueling and rearming between missions against German targets. The book explores the diplomatic complexities involved in arranging for American aircraft and personnel to operate from Soviet territory, revealing the cultural and political tensions that complicated military cooperation. The author chronicles the establishment of American air bases in Soviet territory, examining the logistical challenges and security concerns that affected operations from the beginning. The work analyzes the strategic effectiveness of shuttle bombing operations, questioning whether the tactical advantages justified the political costs and operational complications. Infield documents the deteriorating relationship between American and Soviet personnel, showing how mistrust and cultural differences undermined the cooperative effort. The book examines the intelligence gathering aspects of the operation, revealing how both sides used the opportunity to observe each other's aircraft, equipment, and operational procedures. The author chronicles the devastating German attack on Poltava airfield that destroyed dozens of American aircraft and effectively ended the shuttle bombing program. The work explores the Soviet response to the German attack, analyzing how inadequate air defenses and poor coordination contributed to the disaster. Infield examines the cover-up efforts by both American and Soviet authorities, showing how political considerations influenced the official reporting of the operation's failure. The book analyzes the broader implications of the Poltava affair for Soviet-American relations, showing how this episode foreshadowed post-war tensions between the allies. The author explores the impact on individual aircrew and ground personnel, documenting the human cost of this failed experiment in military cooperation. The work examines the lessons learned from the operation, analyzing how the experience influenced post-war American strategic planning and alliance relationships. Infield documents the propaganda implications of the operation's failure, showing how both sides attempted to control the narrative and minimize political damage. Through careful research and analysis, the author reveals how military necessity, political ambition, and cultural misunderstanding combined to produce a tragic outcome that served as a warning about the challenges of Soviet-American cooperation in the emerging Cold War environment.
The Poltava Affair A Russian Warning: An American Tragedy, is one of the many primary source materials in the Army Air Corps Museum collection.
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