Electronic eyes for the allies: Anglo‐American cooperation on radar development during World War II

Abstract

During World War II, the American and British governments sponsored collaborative research in radar technology. Beginning in September 1940, scientists from the two countries increasingly shared information and worked together to develop radar systems. The radar technology developed through this cooperation had a significant impact on the outcome of the war. There is more to the story, however, than white‐coated scientists joining forces in the name of the common good. The process of wartime radar development influenced and was influenced by the ever‐changing character and priorities of the Anglo‐American diplomatic and military alliance. Social and political factors also played an important role within the research and development process itself. This article will examine radar research during World War II in the context of the collaborative efforts of the British and Americans to develop the technology, and will attempt to uncover the relationships between radar development efforts and the politics of the Anglo‐American alliance.