Ref Number: 00443
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Re-use of RAF Ventnor in the cold war
Ref Number: 00443
The structure was dismantled in 1991 and afterwards interred in order to prevent unauthorised access. The installation is equipped with many operational rooms and accommodations, all of which are entirely self-contained and located below. If the balloon had been deployed during the 1950s, this location would have served as a residence for several military officers responsible for monitoring nuclear attacks and their subsequent fallout.
In response to the escalating tensions of the Cold War during the 1950s, the Rotor project was established. The development of the radar system may be understood as an intermediate measure, intended to serve as a temporary defensive solution. This was undertaken while efforts were being made to create a more sophisticated successor for the Home Chain Radar system. It is worth noting that the Home Chain Radar system had shown to be highly effective for the United Kingdom during World War II.
The successful operation of the whole system necessitated the presence of a highly skilled support crew. Consequently, the Rotor project was strategically divided into two geographical regions, namely the east coast and the west coast. The decision-making process was informed by a comprehensive evaluation of potential threats and associated risks, as well as the financial resources allocated for the purpose.
According to the risk assessment, it was determined that the east coast of the United Kingdom poses a higher level of hazard compared to the west coast. Consequently, a significant proportion of the locations were situated within the expansive subterranean shielded command centres located in the eastern region. One notable characteristic of these places was the presence of a guard house bungalow, which concealed the entrance to an underground structure consisting of two or three levels. Upon observing the structure, one may surmise that it is a typical bungalow.
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