Williams, Dennis Scanning the Skies

Radar Research and Development Flying 1935-1977

This book offers a detailed overview of a complex yet fascinating aspect of British aviation historyone that has received comparatively little coverage to date. The early development of radar in Britain culminated in the successful introduction of ground-based radar, which played a pivotal role during the Battle of Britain. This was followed by the significant challenges involved in designing airborne systems that had to be compact, lightweight, and energy-efficient. The widespread use of radar and other electronic systems (including countermeasures) contributed substantially to major operations by RAF Coastal Command in the North Atlantic and Bomber Command over Europe; these aspects are covered in depth. During the Cold War, development priorities focused on areas such as navigation and control systems for the "V-bombers" and projects involving guided missiles. Just as important as the scientific advances were the aircraft used to test these technologies. A large part of the book is dedicated to the aircraft types employed in British radar research and development over five decadescovering everything from the modifications required for this specialized role and the airfields used to the operational procedures involved. The development of the aircraft themselves and the radar and electronic systems tested on them combine to form a coherent narrative of aviation in the service of scientific research. The account follows a largely chronological progression, illustrating how the rapid evolution of airframes and enginesalongside advances in electronics and, later, computer technologywent hand in hand throughout the period in question.