A barrage balloon, by WL Wyllie.

A barrage balloon. © National Maritime Museum, London

Repro ID: PV1297

Description: Barrage balloons were used as an anti-aircraft device over London during the Second World War. When the Blitz started they were flown by two corporals and ten airmen on a round the clock shift basis. As the war progressed, many of the balloons began to be operated by members of the Women's Auxillary Air Force (WAAF), thus releasing men for active service in other areas. By December 1942 10,000 men had been replaced by some 15,700 WAAF balloon operators.

Creator: William Lionel Wyllie

Date: c. 1925

Credit line: National Maritime Museum, London