The role of RAF communications: From the Second World War to today
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From wartime radio vans to cutting-edge cyber networks, we delve into how RAF communicators have evolved from the Battle of Britain era to today, speaking to Second World War veteran Dorothy Border and AS1 cyber communications specialist Jack Holroyd.
When Dorothy joined the Women’s Auxiliary Air Force (WAAF) at the outbreak of the Second World War, she was determined to contribute to the war effort in a meaningful way. Dorothy said: "I didn’t want to work in a munitions factory. My friends were all joining up, so that was my first thought."
Dorothy went on to serve for more than three and a half years in radio telephony – a vital communications role that kept fighter pilots connected to their stations. Based along the south coast, she was posted to Debden, Hawkinge, Folkestone, and finally Tangmere, an airfield so heavily bombed it was nicknamed Hellfire Corner.
Working shifts, Dorothy and her colleagues were responsible for taking down the pilots’ conversations with their bases. Sometimes she was stationed in barracks, but often she worked from radio vans in the South Downs, keeping communication lines open. She recalls moments of high pressure when pilots were in distress: "Occasionally a pilot might have to ditch his plane. We had a big sense wheel in the van, which we would turn to a certain number and press to give him a home-in to come back safely. That was one of the most exciting things."
Despite the intensity of the role, Dorothy looks back on her service with fondness. The camaraderie of her unit and the sense of purpose shaped her young adult years. She said: "The skills I needed were keeping calm and being vigilant. I enjoyed it very much, particularly mixing with like-minded people and I found the work so interesting."
Although technology has advanced, Dorothy’s role as a radio operator during the Battle of Britain shares many similarities with the work of today’s RAF communications specialists. While Dorothy worked with headsets, hand-written transcripts, and analogue dials, teams now rely on advanced digital systems, satellite links, and secure encrypted networks.
But the essence of the role remains the same: ensuring information flows swiftly and accurately, often under pressure. Whether guiding a Spitfire home over the Channel in 1940 or coordinating missions across continents in 2025, RAF communicators continue to embody vigilance, calmness, and teamwork.
AS1 Jack Holroyd, is a cyber communications specialist based at RAF Wycombe. His role involves building and maintaining servers, as well as managing radio and satellite communications, networks, and structured cabling. He said: "The best thing about working in cyber communications is being able to fix things as soon as possible and having multiple heads thinking about a solution. I enjoy working with advanced systems and knowing there is always going to be something new to learn – whether it be an issue or something that will make my job easier."
He added: "My inspiration for joining the RAF was knowing I could do something for my country, especially in today’s climate. It’s always good to have constant vigilance, and I’m glad I can play my part to help keep our country safe.
"Another inspiration is those who served during the Second World War, including those working in communications, who played a vital part – they will always be remembered for their bravery and dedication. I truly wish I can live up to their names."
Just as Dorothy and her colleagues supported the RAF in its greatest hour of need, the RAF Benevolent Fund has been there to support the RAF Family for over a century. During the Second World War, we provided welfare support, financial assistance, and comfort to those serving and their families.
Today, our mission remains unchanged. From helping veterans like Dorothy, who has benefitted from our community engagement support, to supporting the serving community, we continue to ensure no one in the RAF Family faces hardship alone. One day’s service, a lifetime of support.