RDF to RADAR | The secret electronic battle (1946)

This secret documentary was compiled in 1946 with extracts from classified wartime technical training films as a history of the impact of radar on World War II. The evolution of radar from a basic direction-finding device in 1935 to the detailed imaging devices of 1945 was, in large part, due to the work of Britain’s Telecommunications Research Establishment (TRE). Through the extensive use of animated graphics and actual footage, this film details the development of the technology, how it was adapted to meet new challenges, and how it opened up unexpected possibilities for the war in the air and at sea. Detection was only part of the picture. Radar quickly led to advances in fighter direction, bomber navigation and night fighting. The extraordinary footage and graphics provide an extraordinary insight into this critical - but often underappreciated - contribution to victory in Europe.