CURTISS C-46 COMMANDO FRIEND OR FOE (IFF) RADIO DESTRUCT SWITCH

With the successful deployment and ongoing development of radar systems by both allied and axis forces during WWII, combatants were immediately confronted with the difficulty of distinguishing friendly aircraft from hostile ones; by that time, aircraft were flown at high speed and altitude, making visual identification impossible with targets showing up as featureless blips on the radar screen.

First introduced in 1939, the IFF system quickly evolved into a sophisticated radar interrogation system that transmitted a signal to the aircraft in question which would then, automatically trigger an identifying response.

IFF frequencies and technology were highly guarded by both sides so fail-safe self-destruct mechanisms were built into all radio equipment carried by aircraft flying over enemy territory.

The BC-765 IFF Radio Destruct Switch Box was part of the Commando's SCR-595 Identification Friend or Foe (IFF) Radio system. Mounted on the Commando's overhead pilot’s console and easily accessable by both pilot and co-pilot, and in the threat of potential capture of the aircraft, it enabled the aircraft's crew to destroy the highly classified IFF System and prevent it falling into enemy hands.

Just prior to bailing out or a crash landing, the pilot would press both buttons on the bright red switch simultaneously which would detonate explosive charges built into the aircraft's radio cabinet and destroy the radio.

Unfortunately, despite the twin button detonation process and its bright red colour, many pilots still managed to accidentally trigger the device when initially turning on the IFF System. The sudden thud of a contained explosion and startled yells of the radio operator were quickly followed by the acrid smell of burning insulation filling the cockpit. Eventually the self destruct units were fitted with a thin safety wire to prevent its accidental use.  

This Curtiss C-46 Commando instrument comes complete with detailed Scale Model, Mango Wood Stand & Plaque plus Printed Fact Sheet featuring photo of instrument in aircraft cockpit. 

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