Multichannel FM radio relay sets (such as the AN/TRC-1) were fielded in the European Theater of Operations as early as 1943. This early pioneer in frequency modulation circuits provided front line troops with reliable, static-free communications. The laboratories developed the SCR-510 in 1941. The Signal Corps Laboratories were responsible for designing and developing much of the communications equipment used by American forces in World War II. The Japanese in the Pacific theater with at a distinct disadvantage as they were without radar, while the Allied ships were equipped with early warning radar. Radar was credited with turning the tide of WWII, affecting the outcome of two key engagements: the Battle of Britain and the Battle of the Atlantic. Radar sets were in place in Pearl Harbor in December 1941 and detected the incoming Japanese bombardment, but unfortunately, the warnings were disregarded. Developed out of the Signal Corps Laboratories at Fort Monmouth, Army radar was first successfully demonstrated in 1937.

The Signal Corps had responsibility for one of the most important systems used during World War II – radar. Commanders using field radios could maintain continuous contact with their troops during rapid advances. At its peak strength in the fall of 1944, the Signal Corps comprised over 350,000 officers and men, more than six times as many as had served in the first World War. More than ever before, success in combat depended on good communications. The scope of responsibilities held by the Signal Corps during World War II was significantly increased from its efforts in World War I. Accordingly, this article will focus on the achievements and contributions of the Signal Corps during World War II. June marks the 160th Anniversary of the establishment of the Signal Corps, while 2020 marks the 75th anniversary of the end of World War II.

(Photo Credit: CECOM Historian) VIEW ORIGINAL

WAC Contingent, 15th Signal Training Regiment, Fort Monmouth, NJ. (Photo Credit: CECOM Historian) VIEW ORIGINAL 5 / 5 Show Caption + Hide Caption – Tec 5 Mark Weeks of the 279th Pigeon unit, whistles to his carrier pigeons to come forth for food during mobile loft feeding time. (Photo Credit: CECOM Historian) VIEW ORIGINAL 4 / 5 Show Caption + Hide Caption – Tear of Pasadena, Cal., makes motion pictures of the ruins caused by heavy bombardment on Frankfurt Germany. (Photo Credit: CECOM Historian) VIEW ORIGINAL 3 / 5 Show Caption + Hide Caption – SCR-510, the first FM (frequency modulation) backpack radio. (Photo Credit: CECOM Historian) VIEW ORIGINAL 2 / 5 Show Caption + Hide Caption – Soldiers standing in front of SCR-270, an early piece of radar equipment used in WWII.

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