Searchlight History Facts

In the early part of the war, the British devised a defensive system whereby the target was simultaneously illuminated by at least three searchlights. As it moved on, a new searchlight lit up, and the one left behind was doused. The target was continually illuminated and could then be destroyed,

either by anti-aircraft fire from the ground or by a fighter in the sky.

During the Second World War, anti-aircraft searchlights were used for:

 Detection and illumination of enemy aircraft.

 Enabling day-fighters to be used in the night sky.

 Forcing enemy bombers into higher altitudes.

 Blinding and confusing the crew of the enemy aircraft.

 Acting as beacons for the landing of damaged aircraft.

 Enabling the destruction of ‘flying bombs’ in mid-air.

After the war, the searchlights were used for victory parades and ever since they have been associated with celebrations and special events. Searchlights were used by Hollywood movie studios to announce film premiers and grand openings in a glamorous and festive manner.