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RAF Bradwell Bay

The Little Airfield that Grew Big

Hidden on the edge of Essex is a WW2 Airfield that is full of history, but largely unknown. The large airfield was built in 1941 with the first operational squadron RCAF 418 squadron moved in on the 15th of April 1942 and they flew te first  operational mission on the next day.

Aircraft from RAF Bradwell Bay took part in the following operations

  • Intruder missions
  • Support to 1.000 bomber raids
  • Dieppe Raid
  • Defence of Britain
  • D Day preparations
  • D Day Landings
  • Operation Market Garden
  • Defence against V Weapons

RAF Bradwell Bay was in 11 Group Fighter Command.   The station did not take part in the Battle of Britain. However, the RAF did have a presence in Bradwell-on-Sea from 1938, and did contribute to the Battle of Britain.

In 1938 the RAF built and opened a bombing and firing range on the mudflats of the Blackwater estuary, known as RAF Dengie Flats. A grass airstrip was built on requisitioned land for refuelling and re-arming. On the airstrip was accommodation for 30 other ranks and a sergeant. An officer visited occasionally but stayed in the Green Man pub. Many pilots who fought in the Battle of Britain practised their firing on the range. The range continued in use until the 1960’s

RAF Bradwell Bay was a busy airbase 24 hours a day. It was designated a Night fighter station in 11 Group. It was never an official emergency landing ground but many aircraft including Lancaster’s, Halifax’s and B17’s made emergency landings there.

Bradwell on Sea had over 27 years associated with aviation, learn Bradwell on Sea’s contribution to the Defence of the Realm can be learnt here. If you have any questions we would love to hear from you via our contact page.