Robert Watson-Watt was born in Union Street, Brechin, in 1892. He showed an early interest in science, spending many hours experimenting in the workshop of his father’s joinery business. He won a scholarship to Brechin High and later to University College, Dundee where he took a degree in Electrical Engineering. Watson-Watt became fascinated by the exciting new science of radio and at the beginning of World War I, he accepted a post in the Government Met Office at Farnborough. He was asked to find a way to forecast the approach of lightning and thunderstorms to warn aviators. He had discovered the science underlying radar. At first he could detect aircraft up to 8 miles away and then up to 40 miles. The RAF were very impressed with his work and set up a team of scientists to work on Britain’s secret weapon. Ironically the equipment Watson-Watt used - the picture tube in a TV - was given to him by a German scientist. His work resulted in the building of a chain of radar stations along the east and south coasts of Britain before the outbreak of World War II. The system helped the RAF win the Battle of Britain and was vital in the Battle of the Atlantic and the D-Day Invasion. In 1942, when his work became public, he was awarded a knighthood - read more >> Sir Robert Watson-Watt  : Britain’s Secret Weapon ! Designed and Managed by : Mearnswood Media Limited Your donation will make a difference :: When considering how to support your community please remember the Watson-Watt Society. Visit our latest Memorial Project and to see how you can help us achieve worldwide recognition for another Great Scot.  Sir Robert Watson-Watt Society of Brechin OUR APPEAL TO SUPPORTERS, SPONSORS & OUR COMMUNITY ~ © 2009 Watson-Watt Society of Brechin. Registered Charity No. SC037545 Welcome to our Website (Watson-Watt information portal) Please give a Donation