The Action Information Organisation

Historic need for the collection, processing and display of intelligence on enemy forces for rapid assimilation by the Command in making decisions — limitations imposed by the horizon, visibility and weather conditions — importance of enemy reporting. Experience in World War 1, plus postwar exercises formed basis of simple plotting organisation capable of meeting perceived requirements prior to World War 2. Advent of radar at sea led to development of early Action Information Organisation (AIO) techniques, initially against aircraft. Increase in enemy information, from radar and other sources, overloaded surface plotting arrangements — ships at sea adapted organisations to meet local needs in different theatres of war — plotting developments in the Battle of the Atlantic. Admiralty plans for a new, comprehensive Action Information Organisation — establishment of the AIO Training Centre — getting AIO to sea — appointment of Co-ordinating Authority for the AIO. Birth of the Navigation Direction Branch — the use of radar for navigation, and in the conduct of operations.