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Britain also recruited and conscripted large numbers of single women to monitor radar screens and replace male radar operators who were needed overseas. The Women's Auxiliary Air Force (WAAF) completely dominated the English coastal radar stations by 1943. Many worked as operators or plotters in Filter Rooms, where all aircraft in the area were tracked on large maps and tables so that the commanding officers could see exactly what was happening and make the best decision about where to send their Squadrons.

Members of the WAAF worked closely with Canadian radar mechanics (resulting in many later emigrating to Canada as war brides). Working at the stations was not easy, and many experienced bombing raids and counter attacks by the Germans. Those who worked with radar knew that a nation depended upon their vigilance and the early warning and assistance that they were able to give the Allied troops.

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Members of the Women's Auxiliary Air Force were trained as radar operators and plotters
World War II



Credits:
The Secrets of Radar Museum
Jan Bates Collection