In reply to Lankyman:
> It's odd isn't it how a machine designed to kill can be a thing of beauty?
Possibly, but I guess from a maths perspective, and symmetry being pleasing to the eye, it's maybe not so odd, though I get your emotional point.
I've found Lancasters more unsettling from that perspective, that though they're impressive machines, the thought of their payloads landing on Germany is never a good one.
Perhaps battles between fighter pilots seems more sporting, with pilots on both sides talking about getting a good feeling if 'the other chap' made it out of their aircraft in time.
There were instances apparently of fighter pilots on both sides sparing stricken bombers after seeing the crew struggling to stay airborne and alive, but war is obviously awful.
Post edited at 18:40