THE Battle of Britain is remembered in British history as one of the most shocking of World War II.
But what actually happened in the battle? Here’s everything you need to know…
When was the Battle of Britain?
In autumn 1940, the country was rocked by one of the largest aerial battles to take place on British soil, lasting for 112 days.
It saw the RAF take on the German air force, as the Nazi’s began a sustained attack.
Nazi Germany hoped that by unleashing the large-scale bombing on London they would be able to coerce the UK into negotiating a peace settlement.
September 15, 1940, saw the climax of the fighting, with the British RAF fleet destroying 176 enemy aircraft.
The anniversary falls on this Friday the 15th.
How many died in the World War II dogfights?
544 RAF command pilots and died, along with nearly 1000 from other commands.
Meanwhile 2,500 German aircrew were killed in the fighting.
Other Brit men suffered serious injuries throughout the course of the battle, with many badly burned as their planes were set alight.
After the German air force were defeated on September 15, the fighting was much reduced, although the bombing continued into October.
On September 17, Hitler postponed his plans to invade Britain.
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How does the RAF commemorate it?
The Battle of Britain Day is celebrated on September 15 every year, and the RAF plans a number of events each year to mark the historic day.
They also work to support Battle of Britain veterans throughout the year.
On the 75th anniversary in 2015, a special service was held at St. Paul’s Cathedral in London to take a moment to remember those who lost their lives bravely fighting for the country.
