The Royal Signals Museum is excited to announce an opportunity to delve into Cold War military communications via a free online webinar on Tuesday 19 November 2024 at 12:00 pm.
Co-hosted with the Cold War Network, this virtual event will feature in-depth presentations on two of the British Army's Cold War communication systems: BRUIN and Ptarmigan.
The Museum's introductory films will be presented by Lt Col (Retd) Jim Ross and Maj (Retd) Phil McGiveron. BRUIN officially came into operation in 1968 and remained operational until 1985. It was the first time that a mobile trunk network was used by the British Army. Meanwhile, Ptarmigan was a digital, mobile, encrypted, battlefield-wide, area network system. It transformed the ability of the Royal Signals to provide secure, flexible and resilient voice, data, telegraph and facsimile communications across the BAOR area of operations.
Additional presentations will cover the Wartime Broadcast Service and Berlin’s Field Station at Teufelsberg, providing broader context on the global Cold War landscape. A question and answer session will provide attendees with an opportunity to delve further into specific areas of interest.
Ryan Ellis, Head of Storytelling at the Royal Signals Museum and a member of the Cold War Network's Steering Group, said:
“We’re thrilled to be working with the Cold War Network to bring the fascinating world of Cold War communications to a wider audience. This webinar offers a chance to hear firsthand from those who worked on BRUIN and Ptarmigan, helping to bring engaging stories of technological innovation to life.”
The Cold War Network, an initiative born out of Leeds Beckett University, exists to connect enthusiasts, historians, and institutions dedicated to preserving and exploring Cold War history.
Date: Tuesday, 19 November
Time: 12:00 pm
Location: Online (registration required)
Cost: Free
Registration: Secure your spot at https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/cold-war-communications-tickets-1031339172227
