In
England during WWII the Eighth Air Force utilized trailers like the one
depicted above to communicate with arriving combat aircraft. These trailers
were pulled to the end of the active runway and provided real time information
on landing aircraft. The trailers known as Runway Caravans or Mobile Control
Towers were equipped with ARC-5 radio stations and capable of communicating
with the main tower as well as landing aircraft. The trailers were also equipped
with signal lights, basic weather equipment, and flare guns. These
trailers were primarily modified utility trailers available in England at the
time and varied in design from base to base. Some used B-17 or B-26 plexiglas
noses for observation domes while other had a constructed observation tower.
After
extensive research of archival photos and limited documentation AAFCG has
undertaken the task of recreating a Runway Caravan. As progress continues,
photos will be posted. We are hoping to bring it to events in 2016.
If
anyone reading this blog has any technical or anecdotal information concerning
these trailers please leave a message below.
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