Hitler orders the OKH to start operation Sea Lion more than five years after it was first planned. All risks are acceptable in order to deny atom bomber bases to the Americans. Another consideration is that the USA may sue for peace if Great Britain is knocked out of the war. As the OKH examines the situation they become cautiously optimistic. The RAF and USAAF are now mostly on the defensive. In the previous month the Luftwaffe has executed almost daily probing attacks, damaging airfields, fuel storage and war factories. During these raids 60 bombers were lost - mainly through accidents - and 140 jet fighters. Enemy losses are 1700 fighters confirmed destroyed and 500 bombers. The daily raids are certainly reducing productivity in English factories.