Did the Germans Avoid Radar During the Battle of Britain?

The Question of Radar Use During WWII

During the Second World War, Germany engaged in extensive radar utilization, particularly on the coastlines of Europe. The question often arises, did the Germans avoid using radar, or did they use it to their advantage? This article delves into one instance from the Battle of Britain that showcases how the Luftwaffe managed to evoke the radar systems.

Understanding 'Avoid' Radar

The term "avoid" radar in the context of the Battle of Britain refers to the strategic and tactical use of radar to evade detection rather than the complete non-use of the technology. The Germans employed radar extensively, with radar stations spaced approximately 10-15 miles apart along the coast of Germany, France, and the Netherlands. However, this article focuses on a specific instance where the Germans used radar in a strategic manner to their advantage.

The Raid on Kenley Aerodrome

One noteworthy event occurred on August 18, 1940, when 9./KG 76, a unit of the Luftwaffe, carried out an attack on Kenley aerodrome. This raid is intriguing due to its unusual approach which effectively evaded radar detection.

Strategic Movement and Evading Radar

The Germans approached Kenley aerodrome at extremely low altitudes, making it exceedingly difficult for radar to detect them. This low-altitude flight path provided them with a significant advantage in evading both ground-based and coastal radar systems. The key evidence comes from the fact that the Germans had taken photographs of the raid, which allowed for detailed analysis.

From their low flight path, the aircraft made a strategic course to the target, ensuring they were not detected by radar. Their approach was so low that they were able to cross-country at a level that made them invisible to most radar systems of the time. Upon reaching Burgess Hill, they executed a right turn and followed the railway line to the target, a tactic that was no longer about evading radar but ensuring accurate reporting by the Observer Corps.

Successful Execution and Destruction

The carefully coordinated raid resulted in the destruction of three out of four hangars at Kenley aerodrome and various workshops. Multiple aircraft were destroyed on the ground, and the aerodrome suffered significant damage, leaving it heavily cratered. The nine aircraft from 9./KG 76 managed to return to German territory, with two crashing in England and the remaining seven making it back across the Channel before one of them crashed at Biggin Hill.

Conclusion

The case of the raid on Kenley aerodrome exemplifies how the Germans used their radar systems to their advantage rather than avoiding them. By adopting a tactic of low-level flight and then following established routes, the Germans managed to launch a successful surprise attack, convincingly evading radar detection.

This event highlights the tactical ingenuity and strategic planning of the Luftwaffe in the context of the Battle of Britain. It also underscores the limitations of radar technology during this period, showing how low-altitude and carefully planned tactics could counter the strengths of the radar systems.

Key Points to Consider:

The extensive use of radar by Germany along its coastlines during WWII. The strategic use of low-level flight to evade radar detection by the Luftwaffe. The success of German tactics in a surprise raid on Kenley aerodrome.

Related Keywords:

Battle of Britain Luftwaffe Radar Evasion