D-Day 80: The History of Operation Taxable

Operation Taxable was a key component of the broader deception plan, known as Operation Bodyguard, carried out by the Allies during the D-Day landings in June 1944. It is considered one of the most intricate and successful deception campaigns in military history.

The goal of Operation Taxable was to deceive the German high command into believing that the main Allied invasion force would land at Pas-de-Calais instead of Normandy, thereby diverting German reinforcements and resources away from the actual invasion site.

This was achieved using dummy paratroopers, radio traffic, and other deceptive tactics to divert German attention away from the actual landing sites.

One of the key elements used by the RAF in Operation Taxable was the deployment of dummy parachutists and dummy aircraft to simulate a large-scale airborne operation.

The RAF dropped dummy parachutists, often referred to as ‘Ruperts’, from aircraft over areas of southeast England. These dummies were designed to resemble real paratroopers with equipment and gear that appeared authentic from a distance.

The RAF deployed dummy aircraft and gliders made of lightweight materials, with the aircraft positioned on airfields and in open spaces to replicate the presence of a large air force preparing for a major operation.

Operation Glimmer, a sub-operation of Op Taxable, used the ‘window’ deception, also known as ‘Chaff’, which was a critical part of the RAF’s deception operations during D-Day.

Window involved the use of metallic strips, typically made of aluminium-coated paper, cut to specific lengths to match the wavelength of German radar systems. When released into the air by RAF aircraft and naval ships, these strips formed a cloud of reflective material that appeared as multiple targets on enemy radar screens to mask the true size and nature of the invasion force – making it challenging for radar operators to differentiate between real and false targets.

Together with other sub-operations under Operation Bodyguard, the success of these deception operations played a crucial role in the ultimate success of the Normandy landings.

Op Taxable has provided inspiration for the Fund’s Tin Foil Aeroplane Challenge to commemorate the 80th anniversary of D-Day this June. You can find out more information on how to get involved here.