October 22, 2025

249. Don’t Overlook the RAF’s Photo Reconnaissance Unit: The Eyes That Won WWII with Dave Robertson and Tony Hoskins of For You The War Is Over – IWM Podcast LIVE

56 minutes

Discover the untold story of the RAF heroes who photographed victory.

What if the intelligence that won World War II didn’t come from Bletchley Park — but from the skies above? In this gripping episode of History Rage, host Paul Bavill is joined by historians and podcasters Dave Robertson and Tony Hoskins from For You The War Is Over to uncover the hidden story of the RAF’s Photographic Reconnaissance Unit (PRU) — the unarmed pilots who risked everything to capture the images that shaped Allied strategy and victory.

These daring aviators, flying stripped-down Spitfires and Mosquitos, gathered over 26 million photographs during the war — producing 80% of all Allied intelligence. But their story remains one of WWII’s least recognised triumphs.

The Untold Legacy of Aerial Intelligence

Enigma cracked codes, but aerial reconnaissance won battles.

Dave and Tony reveal how the PRU began as a handful of maverick pilots before evolving into a highly specialised global intelligence unit that transformed modern warfare. They share the staggering dangers these pilots faced — flying alone, unarmed, and often without armour — at freezing altitudes to capture photos over heavily defended targets.

From the development of stereography and 3D imaging that made D-Day possible, to the astonishing innovation behind Sandy Gunn’s Spitfire, the episode brings to life the courage, technology, and sacrifice of those who turned cameras into weapons of war.

You’ll also hear how today’s historians and engineers are preserving this legacy — including the restoration of Sandy Gunn’s Spitfire (AA810) and the creation of a new memorial in London to honour PRU crews.

Featuring Guests:

🎙️ Dave Robertson & Tony Hoskins

Hosts of For You The War Is Over — the hit WWII podcast exploring POW escapes and forgotten wartime stories.

👉 Listen to their show here: For You The War Is Over Podcast

📘 Learn more about their projects and the Spitfire restoration at www.spitfireaa810.co.uk

Join Us Live at the Imperial War Museum Podcast Festival 🎤

Both History Rage and For You The War Is Over will be appearing LIVE at the Imperial War Museum Podcast Live Festival on 1st November.

🎟️ Get your tickets now → https://www.iwm.org.uk/events/podcast-live

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By Paul Bavill

4.9

3131 ratings