Target Map for Kiel, port area, 1943

This target map of Kiel was issued in 1943. Maps like this were prepared for many German cities and were used to help RAF bomber crews identify particular targets during their attacks as part of the strategic air offensive in the Second World War. Kiel's docks and submarine construction facilities are marked on the map. Notable targets marked are Kiel port area; Krupp's shipbuilding yard; Kreigsmarine Werft; oil store quay; torpedo boat harbour.

On the night of 4 April 1943, Bomber Command undertook a large raid on Kiel targeting its dockyards. The attack caused a major fire at the naval dockyard. The main line from Kiel to Hamburg was also reported by the German authorities as having been very severely damaged, but repairs were made within 10 hours. RAF Target Number: 6(c)(iii)6 Operational Number: GH5476