They were number 9 & 617(Dambuster) squadrons RAF flying Lancasters who
staged through aRussian base as all UK bases were out of range; 617's
aircraft were carrying in their extended bombays 12000lb Tallboy bombs, 9's
aircraft were carrying 500lb Johnny Walker mines that were designed for
Capital ships in shallow water. Below is the link that describes the final
raid in November which actually sank Tirpitz, it was carried out by the same
2 squadrons after the aircraft had their armour plate and dorsal turrets
removed plus more powerful engines & extra fuel tanks fitted so they could
fly from Lossiemouth in Scotland.

Myc

http://ourworld.compuserve.com/homep...der/attack.htm