Grass Airstrip Constructed and RAF Coastal Area HQ Established

1931

In 1931, the first grass airstrip was constructed at Lee-on-the-Solent to the west of the town, and the site was designated as headquarters for RAF Coastal Area. The establishment of HQ at Lee represented significant military commitment to the facility, elevating its status from operational flying base to strategic command centre. A major rebuilding and expansion programme ensued, with enhanced runway infrastructure, expanded hangars, technical workshops, administrative facilities, and accommodation for expanded personnel. The transition from seaplane-only operations to grass airstrip capability enabled fixed-wing aircraft operations, significantly broadening the tactical potential of the station. RAF Coastal Area was responsible for coastal patrol and reconnaissance across the English Channel and southern North Sea approaches, making it a strategically significant command. The grass runway construction involved substantial earthworks and drainage, creating a level surface suitable for aircraft operations. Grass surfaces required intensive maintenance to remain serviceable during wet weather, but they provided adequate capacity for the aircraft types of the 1930s. The station's expansion reflected strategic planning for a European conflict that defence planners increasingly anticipated. Investment in airfield capacity, aircraft, and trained personnel accelerated throughout the 1930s as international tensions escalated. By 1935, Lee-on-the-Solent had become one of the RAF's major bases, with hundreds of personnel and dozens of aircraft assigned. The headquarters function attracted senior officers and strategic planners, giving the station broader significance beyond its operational flying role.

Context

The interwar period saw rapid development of land-based military aviation capabilities across Europe. RAF Coastal Area was responsible for coastal patrol and reconnaissance across the English Channel and southern North Sea approaches, making it a strategically significant command. The 1930s witnessed growing tension in Europe as Nazi Germany expanded its military capabilities, prompting Britain to accelerate rearmament.

Impact

The shift to grass airstrip operations expanded Lee's operational capabilities and confirmed its status as a major RAF station, attracting expanded defence investment and strategic responsibility.