4 NOVEMBER 1911, Page 17

The value of the aeroplane in warfare has been speedily

demonstrated in Tripoli. Not only has it been effectively used for purposes of reconnaissance, but the Times corre- spondent, in a message dated November 1st, states that four shells were dropped—one with great effect—among the groups of Arabs in the desert. It may be urged that the forces in Tripoli are so ill-matched in equipment as to discount the lessons drawn from these achievements. In a war conducted on more normal lines both sides would employ aeroplanes, but this does not mean that they would simply cancel out. Even if the supply of these machines on either side were equal, a great advantage would rest with the army which could count on the more daring and skilful pilots.