Suffolk's radar pioneers to be celebrated at special anniversary event

Why it matters: Suffolk played a crucial role in developing radar technology that was instrumental in winning the war. Bawdsey was the location of the world's first operational radar station, and Martlesham Heath was the site of the first airborne radar experiments.

Bawdsey Radar Trust, along with The Communications and Electronics Museum Trust and the Defence Electronics History Society, will host the commemorative event on 15 August 2025 at BT Adastral Park in Martlesham Heath.

The details: The event will comprise two separate sessions open to the public:

• Morning session (10:00-12:00): Five 10-minute presentations aimed at non-technical audiences, covering early radar pioneers and practical challenges.

• Afternoon session (14:00-16:30): Four 20-minute technical presentations on radar's role in the Battle of Britain and the Battle of the Atlantic.

• Tickets will cost £12.50 per person per session

• Visitors must be 16 years or over

What they're saying: Peter Wain, Co-Chair of Bawdsey Radar Trust, said, "In this 80th anniversary year of the end of the Second World War, we wanted to celebrate the enormous achievements made in Suffolk in developing radar and airborne radar. There is no doubt that we would not have won the war without the work of many brave men and women at Bawdsey and the involvement of the General Post Office at the time."

Dr Peter Bell, MD of Adastral Park, added, "I am delighted to be able to host this special event at Adastral Park, to commemorate the development of radar systems and the close links with Martlesham Heath airfield. The GPO played an enormous part in developing radar systems, and BT continues that association to this day with our links to Bawdsey Radar Museum."

The bigger picture: The event will also highlight the Trust's 'Connections' project, which compiles details and memories of those who served, trained or worked at RAF Bawdsey from 1937 to 1991.

What to look out for: Visitors will have a unique opportunity to see replicas of the original airborne radar equipment.

Tune in: GenX Radio will be broadcasting live from the event 14:00-16:00.

The bottom line: Entry is strictly by pre-booking, with full names required at least two weeks in advance for security purposes. Photographic ID must be shown on entry. For more details and to book tickets, visit https://bawdsey-radar.arttickets.org.uk/.