The big, robust Hawker Typhoon fighter made its operational debut over France while participating in operation "Jubilee". This was an abortive amphibious assault on the port of Dieppe lasting just one day, which cost the lives of thousands of Canadian and British troops. The RAF provided continuous air cover for the operation and dozens of raids and counterattacks by German bombers and fighters were engaged. The day-long fighting cost the RAF almost 100 aircraft and the Germans nearly 50. It was the biggest single air battle of 1942. F/L Dawson, of No. 266 Squadron, scored the only confirmed Typhoon kill of the day when he shot down a Do 217 bomber. Unfortunately, he and his wingman were then set upon by Fw 190s. His Typhoon was crippled and the other was shot down. Tragically, Spitfires mistakenly finished Dawson off as he struggled home.
