On 18 August 1940, the Luftwaffe launched major attacks against RAF airfields and radar installations in southern England. The fighting became known as the ‘Hardest Day’ of the Battle of Britain because of the losses both sides suffered.

The Germans aimed to damage Fighter Command’s ability to defend British airspace. Targets included Kenley, Biggin Hill, Gosport, Ford, Thorney Island, Hornchurch and North Weald, as well as the radar station at Poling.

RAF Kenley came under a particularly determined attack. Dornier Do 17 bombers approached at low level while other German aircraft attacked from higher altitude. Buildings and other facilities were damaged, but the German force also suffered losses to British fighters and ground defences.

The fighting extended across southern England. German formations included Dornier, Heinkel and Junkers bombers with fighter escorts, while another attack used Junkers Ju 87 dive-bombers. RAF fighters may have been required to fly several sorties, leaving ground crews to refuel and rearm them quickly between engagements.

The RAF flew 927 sorties during the day and night. Thirty-one British fighters were shot down, with further aircraft destroyed on the ground. Ten fighter pilots were killed or fatally wounded.

German losses were heavier. Sixty-nine Luftwaffe aircraft were destroyed or damaged beyond repair, while 94 German aircrew were killed and 40 became prisoners.

The Luftwaffe inflicted serious damage, but Fighter Command remained operational. No other day during the Battle of Britain saw more aircraft from both sides destroyed or damaged in the air and on the ground.