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(Buy tickets for Jane's talk at the International Bomber Command Centre, Lincoln, on 5 March 2026 here ) 

In this episode, Jane Gulliford Lowes is joined by historian Professor Alan Allport for a wide-ranging discussion of his new book, Advance Britannia, which re-examines Britain’s war effort from 1942 onwards — a period when the nation moved from survival to sustained, large-scale offensive operations.

From the rapid expansion of RAF Bomber Command to the mounting moral, political, and human questions surrounding the bombing war, Advance Britannia offers a fresh perspective on how Britain fought, endured, and understood the later years of the Second World War.

Alan Allport brings his characteristic clarity and depth to topics including:

• Why 1942 marks a turning point in Britain’s war effort
• Bomber Command at the height of its power and controversy
• How the bombing campaign was understood by the British public at the time
• Moral debate, doubt, and dissent within wartime Britain
• Britain’s changing role within the Allied coalition alongside the USAAF
• How victory shaped post-war memory and reckoning
• What Advance Britannia adds to our understanding of Britain’s wartime experience

This episode situates Bomber Command within a broader social, political, and cultural history, offering listeners a deeper understanding of how the air war was fought — and how it has been remembered.

Advance Britannia is available as a hardback book, an ebook, and on Audible. See Links here

About the Guest

Professor Alan Allport is a historian of modern Britain and a frequent guest on Never Mind the Dambusters. He is the author of several acclaimed books, including Demobbed, Browned Off and Bloody-Minded, and Britain at Bay. His work focuses on the social and cultural history of war, with particular attention to morale, memory, and lived experience.

Coming Up Next

In the next episode, Jane will be joined by Mike Peters from the Mighty Eighth Podcast to discuss the USAAF daylight bombing raids on Schweinfurt, examining their objectives, their cost, and what they reveal about the American approach to the air war.

Support the show

Please subscribe to Never Mind The Dambusters wherever you get your podcasts. You can support the show, and help us produce great content, by becoming a paid subscriber from just $3 a month here https://www.buzzsprout.com/2327200/support . Supporters get early access to episodes and invitations to livestreams.

Thank you for listening! You can reach out to us on social media at @RAF_BomberPod (X) or @NeverMindTheDambusters (Instagram)

You can find out about James' research, articles, lectures and podcasts here .

You can read more about Jane's work on her website at https://www.justcuriousjane.com/, and listen to podcasts/media stuff here

Send us a message or question!

In this episode, Jane Gulliford Lowes is joined by author and military historian Sean Feast to examine one of the most strategically important — and morally complex — operations of the bombing war: RAF Bomber Command’s attack on the German V-weapons research centre at Peenemünde in August 1943.

Peenemünde was no ordinary target. As the heart of Germany’s V-1 and V-2 programme, it represented a direct threat to Britain and forced Allied planners to attempt an unprecedented level of precision under combat conditions. The raid, known as Operation Hydra, played a crucial role in the development of the Master Bomber concept and highlighted both the possibilities and limitations of precision bombing in 1943.

Sean draws on decades of research to explore:

• Why the V-weapons programme alarmed Allied leaders
• The intelligence picture behind identifying and targeting Peenemünde
• How Operation Hydra differed from routine bombing operations
• The evolution and operational role of the Master Bomber
• What the raid was like for the aircrews who flew it
• Bomber Command losses and the human cost of the operation
• The raid’s short- and long-term impact on the V-1 and V-2 programmes
• How Peenemünde is remembered today, and what it reveals about the moral complexity of the bombing war

This episode goes beyond operational history to focus on the lived experience of Bomber Command aircrew, the pressures they faced, and the difficult balance between innovation, necessity, and sacrifice.

About the Guest

Sean Feast began his career in journalism in the mid-1980s and is now a highly respected military historian and author of more than twenty books. His works include Master Bombers, Heroic Endeavour, and A Pathfinder’s War. He is a regular contributor to FlyPast and Aeroplane Monthly, and his research has significantly shaped modern understanding of RAF Bomber Command and its aircrews.

Sean is also the co-host of the new aviation history podcast Fighting High, which explores the air war through expert discussion and deep historical insight.
You can find Fighting High here:
👉 https://fightinghighpodcast.com
(or via your usual podcast platforms)

Coming Up Next

In the next episode, Jane will be joined by Professor Alan Allport to discuss his new book Advance Britannia, examining Britain’s war effort from 1943 onwards and how the conflict has been remembered and interpreted.

Support the show

Please subscribe to Never Mind The Dambusters wherever you get your podcasts. You can support the show, and help us produce great content, by becoming a paid subscriber from just $3 a month here https://www.buzzsprout.com/2327200/support . Supporters get early access to episodes and invitations to livestreams.

Thank you for listening! You can reach out to us on social media at @RAF_BomberPod (X) or @NeverMindTheDambusters (Instagram)

You can find out about James' research, articles, lectures and podcasts here .

You can read more about Jane's work on her website at https://www.justcuriousjane.com/, and listen to podcasts/media stuff here

Send us a message or question!

Episode Description / Show Notes:

In this episode of Never Mind the Dambusters, host Jane Gulliford Lowes is joined by John Lilley from the People’s Mosquito Project to explore the extraordinary story of one of the Second World War’s most innovative and versatile aircraft: the de Havilland Mosquito.

Often described as “the wooden wonder,” the Mosquito defied conventional thinking with its largely wooden construction, exceptional speed, and remarkable adaptability. From precision bombing and Pathfinder duties to reconnaissance and special operations, the Mosquito played a unique and vital role within RAF Bomber Command — and far beyond it.

John discusses the origins and development of the Mosquito, its operational use during the bombing campaign, and the experiences of the crews who flew this fast, agile, and demanding aircraft. We also explore some of the Mosquito’s most famous raids, the aircraft’s place in popular memory, and why it continues to capture the imagination more than 80 years on.

The conversation then turns to the People’s Mosquito Project, an ambitious and inspiring effort to restore a Mosquito to flying condition in the UK. John explains how the project began, the challenges of restoring such a unique aircraft, and how listeners can support or get involved.

This episode offers both historical insight and a powerful reminder of the importance of preserving aviation heritage for future generations.

Topics Covered:

• The development and design of the de Havilland Mosquito
• Why wooden construction was both radical and effective
• The Mosquito’s role within RAF Bomber Command
• Precision raids and notable Mosquito operations
• Life as a Mosquito aircrew member
• The aircraft’s legacy and place in popular memory
• Inside the People’s Mosquito Project
• Restoring a Mosquito to flight in the 21st century

Guest:

John Lilley
Chairman, The People’s Mosquito Project

Links & Further Reading:

• The People’s Mosquito Project: https://www.peoplesmosquito.org.uk/

Support the show

Please subscribe to Never Mind The Dambusters wherever you get your podcasts. You can support the show, and help us produce great content, by becoming a paid subscriber from just $3 a month here https://www.buzzsprout.com/2327200/support . Supporters get early access to episodes and invitations to livestreams.

Thank you for listening! You can reach out to us on social media at @RAF_BomberPod (X) or @NeverMindTheDambusters (Instagram)

You can find out about James' research, articles, lectures and podcasts here .

You can read more about Jane's work on her website at https://www.justcuriousjane.com/, and listen to podcasts/media stuff here

Send us a message or question!

In this episode of Never Mind the Dambusters, host Jane Gulliford Lowes is joined by Jonathan Falconer, a leading authority on the RAF and the Second World War, to discuss the Short Stirling, Bomber Command's first four-engine heavy bomber. They explore its development, operational history, and the unique challenges it faced. Jonathan shares insights into the aircraft's design, its role in key operations, and its eventual transition to transport and special duties roles. The conversation also touches on the legacy of the Stirling and the men who flew it, highlighting its often overlooked contributions to the war effort.

You can read more about Jonathan's work here

The titles referenced in this episode: 

Short Stirling Owner's Workshop Manual (Haynes)

https://amzn.eu/d/1TFE4JV

Handley Page Halifax Owner's Workshop Manual (Haynes)

https://amzn.eu/d/cyCLs9O

RAF Bomber Command Operations Manual 

https://amzn.eu/d/cyCLs9O

Bomber Command Crewman

https://amzn.eu/d/g3ZyFQ7

Stirling Wings

https://amzn.eu/d/dPwKkse

Support the show

Please subscribe to Never Mind The Dambusters wherever you get your podcasts. You can support the show, and help us produce great content, by becoming a paid subscriber from just $3 a month here https://www.buzzsprout.com/2327200/support . Supporters get early access to episodes and invitations to livestreams.

Thank you for listening! You can reach out to us on social media at @RAF_BomberPod (X) or @NeverMindTheDambusters (Instagram)

You can find out about James' research, articles, lectures and podcasts here .

You can read more about Jane's work on her website at https://www.justcuriousjane.com/, and listen to podcasts/media stuff here

Send us a message or question!

Welcome back and a happy new year ! 

🇨🇦 In this episode of "Never Mind the Dambusters," host Jane Gulliford Lowes is joined by Dr. Dan Ellin and Canadian historian Greg Kopchuk . The team explore the Canadian contribution to RAF Bomber Command, and the formation of 6 Group, from the perspective of 429 Bison Squadron. Greg explains how the Squadron got off to a fairly rocky start, with a CO who wouldn't fly and a very high casualty rate. 

Greg's book on 429 Sqn is available here

Support the show

Please subscribe to Never Mind The Dambusters wherever you get your podcasts. You can support the show, and help us produce great content, by becoming a paid subscriber from just $3 a month here https://www.buzzsprout.com/2327200/support . Supporters get early access to episodes and invitations to livestreams.

Thank you for listening! You can reach out to us on social media at @RAF_BomberPod (X) or @NeverMindTheDambusters (Instagram)

You can find out about James' research, articles, lectures and podcasts here .

You can read more about Jane's work on her website at https://www.justcuriousjane.com/, and listen to podcasts/media stuff here

Send us a message or question!

SERIES 4 OF NEVER MIND THE DAMBUSTERS IS ON THE WAY!

Brand new episodes drop Wednesday January 7th 2026 (available from Saturday 3rd for our paid subscribers). 

We're returning with our most ambitious series yet — filled with new interviews, untold stories, and in-depth explorations of RAF Bomber Command.

Here’s a glimpse of what’s coming up:

✈️ The Short Stirling with historian Jonathan Falconer
🪵 The de Havilland Mosquito with John Lilley from the People’s Mosquito project
🇨🇦 429 Bison Squadron and the RCAF with Greg Kopchuck
🎯 The Peenemünde Raid & the Master Bomber with Sean Feast
🇺🇸 USAAF Schweinfurt missions with Mike Peters of the Mighty Eighth podcast
💣 Bomb disposal in wartime Hamburg with Thomas Rost
📚 Professor Alan Allport on his new book Advance Britannia
🔥 Erik Parker on the Rotterdam raids
…and much more to come.

If you’re fascinated by the aircraft, the crews, the tactics, or the debates that still surround Bomber Command, you won’t want to miss this.

Make sure to follow the page, join our discussion group, and subscribe on your favourite podcast app so you’re ready for takeoff!

#NeverMindTheDambusters #WW2History #BomberCommand #AviationHistory #Podcast

Support the show

Please subscribe to Never Mind The Dambusters wherever you get your podcasts. You can support the show, and help us produce great content, by becoming a paid subscriber from just $3 a month here https://www.buzzsprout.com/2327200/support . Supporters get early access to episodes and invitations to livestreams.

Thank you for listening! You can reach out to us on social media at @RAF_BomberPod (X) or @NeverMindTheDambusters (Instagram)

You can find out about James' research, articles, lectures and podcasts here .

You can read more about Jane's work on her website at https://www.justcuriousjane.com/, and listen to podcasts/media stuff here

Send us a message or question!

Have we got a treat for you...Something different - U-boats instead of aircraft!

In our final episode of this series, “The U-boat War - Wolfpack,” we explore the U-Boat War from the German perspective with historian and author Roger Moorhouse, whose new book Wolfpack: Inside Hitler’s U-Boat War will be published on 9 October 2025. Hosts James Jefferies and Jane Gulliford-Lowes dive into what life was really like aboard German U-boats, the shifting strategies of the Battle of the Atlantic,  the human stories behind the steel hulls, the role of Ultra Intelligence, the impact of Allied bombing and developments in technology. 

By looking at the war through the eyes of the U-boat crews, this episode reveals a side of World War II history that’s often overlooked. Join us for a fascinating conversation that brings these powerful and complex narratives to life.

Further reading: 

You can read Jane's articles on Ultra Intelligence in the Battle of the Atlantic and How to Survive Being Sunk by a U-Boat here. 

Never Mind the Dambusters Merchandise is now available at https://never-mind-the-dambusters.teemill.com/

Support the show

Please subscribe to Never Mind The Dambusters wherever you get your podcasts. You can support the show, and help us produce great content, by becoming a paid subscriber from just $3 a month here https://www.buzzsprout.com/2327200/support . Supporters get early access to episodes and invitations to livestreams.

Thank you for listening! You can reach out to us on social media at @RAF_BomberPod (X) or @NeverMindTheDambusters (Instagram)

You can find out about James' research, articles, lectures and podcasts here .

You can read more about Jane's work on her website at https://www.justcuriousjane.com/, and listen to podcasts/media stuff here

Send us a message or question!

(Episode on general release Wednesday 1st October 2025)

Have we got a treat for you...Something different - U-boats instead of aircraft!

In our final episode, “The U-boat War - Wolfpack,” we explore the U-Boat War from the German perspective with historian and author Roger Moorhouse, whose new book Wolfpack: Inside Hitler’s U-Boat War will be published on 9 October 2025. Hosts James Jefferies and Jane Gulliford-Lowes dive into what life was really like aboard German U-boats, the shifting strategies of the Battle of the Atlantic,  the human stories behind the steel hulls, the role of Ultra Intelligence, the impact of Allied bombing and developments in technology. 

By looking at the war through the eyes of the U-boat crews, this episode reveals a side of World War II history that’s often overlooked. Join us for a fascinating conversation that brings these powerful and complex narratives to life.

Further reading: 

You can read Jane's articles on Ultra Intelligence in the Battle of the Atlantic and How to Survive Being Sunk by a U-Boat here. 

Never Mind the Dambusters Merchandise is now available at https://never-mind-the-dambusters.teemill.com/

Please subscribe to Never Mind The Dambusters wherever you get your podcasts. You can support the show, and help us produce great content, by becoming a paid subscriber from just $3 a month here https://www.buzzsprout.com/2327200/support . Supporters get early access to episodes and invitations to livestreams.

Thank you for listening! You can reach out to us on social media at @RAF_BomberPod (X) or @NeverMindTheDambusters (Instagram)

You can find out about James' research, articles, lectures and podcasts here .

You can read more about Jane's work on her website at https://www.justcuriousjane.com/, and listen to podcasts/media stuff here

Send us a message or question!

In Episode 56 ( the penultimate episode of series 3), we delve into a chilling chapter of World War II history: the murders of Allied airmen in Germany. As the war raged on, downed airmen often found themselves at the mercy of their captors - military, civilian authorities and sometimes ordinary citizens.

This episode uncovers the fate of one Allied airman, missing in action in January 1945. We are joined by German historian Thomas Rost, and together we explore the complex web of wartime  and post-war justice, and the search for the truth.  A thought -provoking discussion about crime, justice, due process, human responses and revenge.

Support the show

Please subscribe to Never Mind The Dambusters wherever you get your podcasts. You can support the show, and help us produce great content, by becoming a paid subscriber from just $3 a month here https://www.buzzsprout.com/2327200/support . Supporters get early access to episodes and invitations to livestreams.

Thank you for listening! You can reach out to us on social media at @RAF_BomberPod (X) or @NeverMindTheDambusters (Instagram)

You can find out about James' research, articles, lectures and podcasts here .

You can read more about Jane's work on her website at https://www.justcuriousjane.com/, and listen to podcasts/media stuff here

Send us a message or question!

(Episode on general release Wednesday 24 September) 

In Episode 56, we delve into a chilling chapter of World War II history: the murders of Allied airmen in Germany. As the war raged on, downed airmen often found themselves at the mercy of their captors - military, civilian authorities and sometimes ordinary citizens.

This episode uncovers the story of one Allied airman, missing in action in January 1945. We are joined by German historian Thomas Rost, and together we explore the complex web of wartime  and post-war justice, and the search for the truth.  A thought -provoking discussion about crime, justice, due process, human responses and revenge. 

Please subscribe to Never Mind The Dambusters wherever you get your podcasts. You can support the show, and help us produce great content, by becoming a paid subscriber from just $3 a month here https://www.buzzsprout.com/2327200/support . Supporters get early access to episodes and invitations to livestreams.

Thank you for listening! You can reach out to us on social media at @RAF_BomberPod (X) or @NeverMindTheDambusters (Instagram)

You can find out about James' research, articles, lectures and podcasts here .

You can read more about Jane's work on her website at https://www.justcuriousjane.com/, and listen to podcasts/media stuff here