RAF AIR SEA RESCUE AT 85

2026 marks the 85th anniversary of the formation of RAF Air Sea Rescue. Join us to mark this historic occasion at the Battle of Britain Bunker with the launch of a new exhibition and accompanying talks exploring the vital impact the service made to the war effort.

In mid-1940 Vice-Admiral Sir Bertram Ramsay and Air Vice-Marshal Keith Park established a rescue service using naval aircraft and RAF high-speed launches. The Royal Navy and the Royal Air Force would work jointly on such operations, and special liaison officers were appointed at group level to assist with operations. This led to the Air Sea Rescue directorate to be established in February 1941. Tasked with coordinating rescue missions, introducing and improving lifesaving equipment and processes, this transformed the chances of survival and saved hundreds of Allied aircrews during the war and beyond.

To mark this anniversary, and to celebrate the lesser known contribution to the war effort, the Bunker will be unveiling new temporary exhibition panels in the Visitor Centre, along with a brand new, stunning little diorama of a Supermarine Walrus and a 100 Class HSL – the key components of RAF Air Sea Rescue. A talk from historian and speaker Chris Leworthy will tell the extraordinary tale of the service’s formation and discuss its impact on the lives of Allied aircrew. Meanwhile military historian and author Will Iredale will host a talk on Churchill’s Pirates – the unknown story of the Royal Naval Patrol Service. Throughout the day, there will be a chance to try your own hand at model making, with craft and model making activities available for all the family, too.

Please note – whilst some tickets may be available for purchase on the door, advance booking is recommended for this event.

Schedule:

All day:  Model making and family crafts  [Visitor Centre – ANY ticket]

All day: Guided Bunker Tours [Bunker – £14, concessions available]

11:30 –  Speaker Series: Will Iredale – Churchill’s Pirates [Auditorium – £8 – FREE for Members]

14:00 – Exhibition launch [Mezzanine – ANY ticket – FREE for Members]

14:15 – Speaker Series: Chris Leworthy – The Story of Air Sea Rescue [Auditorium – ANY ticket – FREE for Members]