Air Defence Collection

NATO capability enhancement training in Estonia
The British Armys 16th Regiment Royal Artillery, shown here deployed to Estonia under NATOs Trans-Atlantic Capability Enhancement and Training (TACET) initiative

Typhoon
A Typhoon aircraft from 29 Squadron Royal Air Force is photographed at altitude over the North Sea. Typhoon is a multi-role combat aircraft

Soldiers of an anti aircraft battery in the West Midlands, seen here training. 12 December 1941

Members of the Home Guard seen here firing Z Battery short range anti aircraft missiles. July 1942

Tornado F3 patrolling over the Falkland Islands
Two Tornado F3 aircraft from 1435 Flight based at Mount Pleasant Airfield patrolling the skies over the Falkland Islands. The Tornados watch over the islands and guard them from the air

Rocket projector drill for the Home Guard during the Second World War. West Midlands. Circa 1942

Under the eye of a "Regular"Home Guards learn the art of loading
Under the eye of a " Regular" Home Guards learn the art of loading. Rocket projector drill during the Second World War. West Midlands. Circa 1942

A sound locator crew working with a Search Light unit during an air raid exercise in the West Midlands.. Such methods, as well as the Observation Corps

Army spotter taking part in a searchlight exercise in the West Midlands involving the Army and the RAF just prior to the outbreak of the Second World War. 8th August 1939

Searchlight exercise in the West Midlands involving the Army and the RAF just prior to the outbreak of the Second World War. 8th August 1939

General view of The Royal Artillery Missile Park at the Farnborough Air Show showing a line of " Thunderbird" rockets at the ready. September 1961 P000981

Putting barrage ballons into a hangar, 1943
Putting the balloons to bed in giant hangars is part of the intensive training undertaken by balloon operators. From Roof Over Britain. [His Majestys Stationery Office, London, 1943]

On target! - A 3. 7 inch gun detachment at battle practice, 1943
On target! - A 3.7 gun detachment at battle practice, 1943. From Roof Over Britain. [His Majestys Stationery Office, London, 1943]

Anti-aircraft women of the ATS operating an identification telescope, 1943. From Roof Over Britain. [His Majestys Stationery Office, London, 1943]

General Sir Frederick Pile, Commander-in-Chief, Anti-Aircraft Command, 1943. From Roof Over Britain. [His Majestys Stationery Office, London, 1943]

Woman of the WaF handling a barrage balloon, 1943. The WaF takes over. The handling of barrage balloon requires skill, team-work and considerable physical strength. From Roof Over Britain

Elephants child. A searchlight of 210, 000, 000 candle-power probes the night sky with its beam, 1943. From Roof Over Britain. [His Majestys Stationery Office, London, 1943]

Women on duty on an anti-aircraft battery, 1943.The girls cannot be beaten in action, said the officer commanding a mixed battery. They are quite as steady, if not steadier, than the men

A Fordson WOT 1 barrage balloon winch lorry in Erith, London. 1938

A-50 early-warning radar aeroplane, coming in to land at an air base. The radar rotordome (oval, upper centre) is the structure seen between the wings and the aircraft tail

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"Guarding the Skies: A Glimpse into Air Defence Through History" From NATO capability enhancement training in Estonia to soldiers of an anti-aircraft battery in the West Midlands, it has always been a crucial aspect of military operations. The powerful Typhoon jets soaring through the skies demonstrate the cutting-edge technology employed to protect our airspace. In this captivating image, members of the Home Guard can be seen firing Z Battery short-range anti-aircraft missiles during rigorous training. Their dedication and skill highlight the unwavering commitment to safeguarding our skies. The historic photograph takes us back to 1943 when barrage balloons were stored in hangars, ready for action. These floating giants served as formidable obstacles for enemy aircraft, symbolizing resilience and determination. During World War II, women played a vital role in air defence efforts. Anti-aircraft women from ATS operated identification telescopes with precision and expertise while Women's Auxiliary Air Force (WaF) personnel handled barrage balloons with utmost care. Their contribution was instrumental in protecting lives on the home front. General Sir Frederick Pile stands tall as Commander-in-Chief of Anti-Aircraft Command in 1943, leading his troops with strategic brilliance. His leadership ensured that every gun detachment was well-prepared for battle practice, exemplifying their readiness to defend against aerial threats. As night falls over the Falkland Islands, Tornado F3 jets patrol tirelessly above its shores. These brave pilots remain vigilant day and night, ensuring that no threat goes unnoticed or unchallenged. One cannot help but marvel at a searchlight boasting an astonishing 210 million candle-power illuminating the dark sky like daylight. This awe-inspiring sight reminds us of both technological advancements and human ingenuity working hand-in-hand towards effective air defence measures. Lastly, we witness courageous women stationed on an anti-aircraft battery during wartime Britain – their duty never faltering despite challenging circumstances. With unwavering resolve, they stand ready to protect their homeland from any airborne danger.