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British Balloon Command was established to protect cities
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British Balloon Command was established to protect cities
British Balloon Command was established to protect cities and key targets such as industrial areas, ports and harbours. Balloons were intended to defend against dive bombers flying at heights up to 5, 000 feet (1, 500 m), forcing them to fly higher and into the range of concentrated anti-aircraft fire: anti-aircraft guns could not traverse fast enough to attack aircraft flying at low altitude and high speed. By the middle of 1940 there were 1, 400 balloons, a third of them over the London area
(Picture) British Balloon.
8th April 1939
Official
Reach plc
Mirrorpix
London
Greater London
England
Media ID 21887316
© Mirrorpix
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This print takes us back to a significant moment in history - the establishment of the British Balloon Command. The year is 1939, just before the outbreak of World War II, and tensions are rising. In an effort to protect cities and vital targets from enemy attacks, this command was formed. The image showcases a cluster of enormous balloons floating gracefully in the sky, serving as a formidable defense against dive bombers. These balloons were strategically placed at heights up to 5,000 feet, forcing enemy aircraft to fly higher into concentrated anti-aircraft fire range. This defensive measure aimed to counteract their ability to strike low-altitude targets with high speed. By April 8th, 1939, when this photograph was taken, there were already an impressive number of 1,400 balloons deployed across Britain's skies. Remarkably enough, one-third of them could be found over London alone - a testament to the city's strategic importance during wartime. As we gaze upon this historical snapshot captured by Official from Memory Lane Prints collection, we can't help but feel awe-inspired by the ingenuity and determination displayed by those who fought for their country's safety during such challenging times. It serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made and the resilience shown by both civilians and military personnel alike throughout World War II.
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