Battle of Britain 85: The role of a WAAF Plotter

This month marks the 85th anniversary of the Battle of Britain, and we’re spotlighting the diverse roles of RAF personnel who served during that pivotal time. In particular, we explore the vital work of a Plotter – shedding light on their contribution to the Battle and how the role has evolved in today’s RAF.

The role of a plotter in the RAF during the Second World War was integral to the success of air operations, particularly in the early stages of radar and tracking technology. Plotters were responsible for plotting aircraft movements on operational maps, tracking enemy formations, and ensuring that RAF aircraft were directed accurately in combat situations.

The Women’s Auxiliary Air Force (WAAF) played a vital part in fulfilling this role. Men in the RAF were typically assigned to direct combat positions, whilst WAAF personnel undertook critical support functions, including plotting, which was essential to maintaining situational awareness during air raids.

WAAF plotters worked in operations rooms across the UK, tracking incoming and outgoing aircraft using a combination of radar readings, visual sightings, and radio communication. These positions were often stressful, as the plotters had to make quick decisions to ensure the safety of RAF crews and civilians.

WAAF personnel were trained in the use of plotting boards, a tool that allowed them to record and track the positions of aircraft by marking them on a large-scale map. Each plotter would use these boards to move markers representing aircraft, constantly adjusting their positions as they received updated information.

The role required precision, attention to detail, and the ability to work under pressure, especially during the height of the Battle of Britain when the skies were filled with both RAF and Luftwaffe aircraft.

WAAF plotters ensured that pilots were guided to intercept enemy formations effectively. The role was pivotal in ensuring that RAF pilots had the information they needed to carry out their missions.

An equivalent role in the RAF today is an Air Operations Specialist. RAF personnel in this position are responsible for managing and interpreting air traffic data and ensuring that air operations run smoothly. 

While modern technology has replaced many manual plotting tasks with digital systems, monitoring and controlling airspace remains crucial to the role. Air Operations Specialists still play an important part in maintaining air superiority and ensuring that RAF assets are deployed effectively.

For 106 years, and throughout the Second World War, the Fund was there to support injured personnel, families, widows and children through the darkest times. Today, the Fund continues to ensure that no one who has served our country is left behind. Our promise is simple: one day’s service, a lifetime of support.

With credit to: Imperial War Museum, BBC History and RAF Museum