Why was it so important that the luftwaffe destroy the RAF before the German army invaided Britain?

The Luftwaffe needed to destroy the RAF to achieve air superiority, which was crucial for a successful invasion of Britain (Operation Sea Lion). Without control of the skies, the German Army would be vulnerable to British air attacks during the invasion. Additionally, an intact RAF could disrupt German naval operations and support British defenses, making a successful invasion significantly more difficult. Thus, eliminating the RAF was seen as a prerequisite for any effective military campaign against Britain.