Research and development is a key component of engineering. The circumstances of war required engineers to use their existing skills to devise new solutions, develop and adapt existing technology and combine sector knowledge with military intelligence to make significant contributions to the Allied war effort.
The floating Mulberry Harbours played an essential role in facilitating the Allied invasion of Normandy in June 1944.
The Napier Sabre engine powered two of the wars most formidable aircraft; the Hawker Tempest and Typhoon.
Allied suspicions about the German development of a long range rocket led to the discovery of the V-2.
Towards the end of the war engineers were involved in providing technical understanding of German technological advances.
In 1942 it was recommended that a new Corps was created encompassing professional mechanical and electrical engineers to centralise engineering support within the Armed Forces.
Many civilian engineers were commissioned into the Armed Forces during the War to use their specific engineering expertise to support engineering initiative at home and abroad.
Radar and the development of the cavity magnatron
Discover developments to shorten radio wavelength enabling radar to be fitted into aircraft and ships in addition to on shore.
kilbourn and the sherman tank
Coming soon. A guest article about IMechE Member William Kilbourn and his work on the gun turret of the Sherman Tank.