The Science of Bombing Operational Research in RAF Bomber Command

Wakelam, Randall T.

ISBN 10: 0802096298 / ISBN 13: 9780802096296

Published by Univ of Toronto Pr, 2009

About this Item

1st edition. 384 pages. 9.25x6.00x1.00 inches. In Stock.

Seller Inventory # __0802096298

Bibliographic Details

• Title: The Science of Bombing Operational Research in RAF Bomber Command
• Publisher: Univ of Toronto Pr
• Publication Date: 2009
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 0802096298
• ISBN 13: 9780802096296
• Binding: Paperback
• Condition: Brand New
• Weight: 0.67 kilograms

About this title

Synopsis

After suffering devastating losses in the early stages of the Second World War, the United Kingdom's Royal Air Force established an Operational Research Section within bomber command in order to drastically improve the efficiency of bombing missions targeting Germany. In The Science of Bombing, Randall Wakelam explores the work of civilian scientists who found critical solutions to the navigational and target-finding problems and crippling losses that initially afflicted the RAF.

Drawing on previously unexamined files that re-assess the efficacy of strategic bombing from tactical and technical perspectives, Wakelam reveals the important role scientific research and advice played in operational planning and how there existed a remarkable intellectual flexibility at Bomber Command. A fascinating glimpse into military strategy and decision-making, The Science of Bombing will find a wide audience among those interested in air power history as well as military strategists, air force personnel, and aviation historians.

About the Author

Randall Wakelam served in the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) as a tactical helicopter pilot and educator for more than four decades; he has taught and written about air power and leadership for the past twenty-five years and is now an associate professor emeritus of the Department of History at Royal Military College.