‘The Few’ – the 2,945 RAF aircrew who faced the Luftwaffe In the Battle of Britain.
For over 100 years the Royal Air Force has defended British skies. 80 years ago, it experienced its greatest test in the Battle of Britain.
Text, Photos RAF Copyright
Using science, ingenuity, and support from across the UK and overseas, the RAF defended the UK from Nazi Germany’s air force, the Luftwaffe. It was the first major battle fought entirely in the air, and Nazi Germany’s first major military defeat.
This year the RAF is commemorating and celebrating those who made this victory possible: From the hard work and determination of ‘The Many’, to the courage and sacrifice of ‘The Few’ – the 2,945 RAF aircrew who faced the Luftwaffe from July to October 1940.
By summer 1940, much of Europe had fallen to Nazi Germany. Backed by its allies overseas, the British Government refused to make peace with Hitler. In this country’s darkest hour, the British Armed Forces prepared to defend the United Kingdom.
ENABLE VICTORY
Millions of ordinary men and women across the UK played vital roles, including Air Raid Wardens, firefighters and members of the Home Guard. Thousands across the UK worked in aircraft factories, building the aircraft that would defend the country. Between June and October 1940, around 2,000 Hurricanes and Spitfires were built.
DETECT AND OBSERVE
By 1940, dozens of radar stations had been constructed along the British coastline. This system, called ‘Chain Home’, was the first early warning radar network ever built. Men and women in the radar stations could detect approaching German aircraft from up to 80 miles away.
Speed was crucial. Information gathered by radar and the Observer Corps went to RAF Fighter Command Headquarters at Bentley Priory in North London. They checked the information, and circulated this by phone to RAF Groups across the country. Each Group controlled the RAF aircraft, anti-aircraft guns, searchlights, and barrage balloons in their areas. Every action was plotted on a large map. Known as the ‘Dowding System’, it was the world’s most advanced air defence network.
The bravery and sacrifice of RAF aircrew was matched by the ceaseless effort and devotion of RAF ground crew. RAF engineers, mechanics, and armourers, as well as countless others on the ground, worked day and night to keep the RAF ready for battle.
RAF stations were often targets for bombing, so RAF ground crew often found themselves in the line of fire. 312 RAF personnel were killed on the ground during the Battle of Britain.
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