British Home Defences 1940-45

Description

In the summer of 1940, Britain asked itself not 'will Hitler invade?' but 'when?' SEALION, the German invasion plan, provoked the construction of pillboxes, coastal defences, heavy-gun emplacements and anti-aircraft batteries, as well as the formation of the Home Guard and covert groups. Later, new dangers replaced SEALION: radar detection systems were expanded during the Blitz years, as were intelligence-gathering systems and listening posts. From 1944, Britain was again faced with a deadly threat, Hitler's 'Vengeance weapons'. This title provides a concise assessment of Britain's defensive systems, and presents a vivid picture of war on the home front.

Bernard Lowry is the Honorary Secretary of the Fortress Study Group, an international society concerned with all aspects of military fortifications. Bernard was also a regional co-ordinator for the Defence of Britain Project. He lives in Shropshire, England; this is his first book for Osprey Publishing. Chris Taylor attended art college in his home town, then graduated from Bournemouth University with a degree in computer graphics. He currently works as a freelance illustrator for various publishing companies. Vincent Boulanger studied at the Ecole Superieure d'Art Graphique before beginning work as a freelance illustrator. He has produced illustrations for numerous publishers and commercial organisations.