On July 16, 1940 Hitler ordered the beginning of Operation Sealion, a destruction of the British Air force, which, if successful, would lead to a complete invasion of Britain.
Germany had expected for Britain to sue for peace, after the fall of France. However, Churchill and the British people would hear no such talk. They were committed to bringing about victory.
The German air force was significantly more advanced than that of Britain. Germany had nearly 3,000 aircraft, compared to Britain's approximately 1,000. In addition to this, Germany's planes were far better, and her pilots were, over all, more experienced.
But, what Britain did have was a very well planned radar structure, which allowed her to concentrate her fighters at key areas. Also, the German fighters were only able to accompany the bombers about 20 minutes over Britain, making the bombers and easy target.
The Luftwaffe began attacking convoys, radar stations, and other targets on the Southern coast, in July. However, the British defense structure was highly effective, putting fighters where they needed to be, when they needed to be there.
By mid August, Britain was producing twice as many aircraft as Germany, despite the Luftwaffe's attempts at destroying British industry.
The Battle of Britain continued until September, when Operation Sealion was cut short. The Luftwaffe had failed to gain its objective. This was the first major defeat of Germany, and it was crucial to the turning point of the war.
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