The Eyes of the RAF : A History of Photo-Reconnaissance

It became apparent very early on during World War I that aerial photo-reconnaissance and photo-interpretation would become essential tools for British intelligence. Yet the highly successful techniques declined during the inter-war period, kept alive only by private individuals and a few devotees in the armed forces. They were rapidly restored, however, during World War II and developed until they became remarkably effective methods of obtaining accurate sources of intelligence for Allied commanders when making strategic and tactical decisions. Since then, Britain has not entered any conflict before ensuring that these techniques played a prominent part.