Harris’s Scientists: Operational Research in Bomber Command

Authors

Randall Wakelam

Abstract

This essay describes the contents of a unique post-war report, available online thorough LCMSDS, by the Bomber Command Operational Research Section (ORS) in which the scientists described their mandate, work and contributions to the RAF’s strategic and tactical bombing efforts against Germany. While ORS reports are extensively cited in various histories of the bombing campaign, the processes by which the scientists did their work are not widely known; this essay provides insights into these matters. The essay also gives historical and historiographical context for both reading the report and appreciating the work of Harris’s scientists.

Recommended Citation

Wakelam, Randall "Harris’s Scientists: Operational Research in Bomber Command." Canadian Military History 29, 2 (2020)