My current research explores the relationship between technology, institutions and military effectiveness in the twentieth century. Although the projects range across aviation, military history and public policy, they share a common interest in how governments and organisations shape innovation, strategy and historical outcomes.
The de Havilland Mosquito and British Aviation Policy
This article examines the development of the de Havilland Mosquito and asks why British decision-makers were initially reluctant to support what would become one of the most successful aircraft of the Second World War. The study explores the interaction of technological innovation, organisational culture and public policy in the years before 1939.
The Advanced Air Striking Force and the Battle of France
This article reconsiders the performance of the Royal Air Force’s Advanced Air Striking Force during the German offensive of May 1940. Challenging established interpretations, it examines the relationship between pre-war doctrine, operational preparation and combat performance, and asks how later generations came to understand the campaign.
Civil-Military Relations and the Liberal State
This project investigates civil-military relations in Britain between 1906 and 1915. It explores how Liberal governments sought to manage the armed forces during a period marked by imperial commitments, labour unrest, Irish Home Rule and the approach of the First World War.
Continuing research
My current projects include an examination of the development of British flying boats between the wars as a further case study in the relationship between public policy and technological innovation, together with Gallipoli as a case study in the limits of imperial knowledge and military planning. These projects form part of a continuing programme of research into the relationship between public policy, military organisations and technological innovation. As articles are published and new work develops, this page will be updated.