Stow Maries Great War Aerodrome has launched its second new exhibition in six weeks: Words Without Wires.

Appropriately housed in the aerodrome's Communications building, the exhibition is a must-see for all fans of early technology, aviation, or the Great War.

Supported by bespoke interactive technology, the exhibition delves into the development of communication between ground and air.

Words Without Wires examines the very first use of Wireless Telegraphy – the transmission of telegraph signals via radio waves, used to send messages over long distances.

Some of the original Wireless Telegraphy devices on show (Photo: Stow Maries Great War Aerodrome)

Stow Maries chairman, Barry Dickens, said: "The advent of Wireless Telegraphy in aeroplanes in World War One was a massive technological advance."

"Stow Maries Great War Aerodrome is proud to have been the base of 37 Squadron, who first exploited this new capability, and now to host this fascinating new exhibition."

Wireless Telegraphy was pioneered in Essex, and first used operationally by 37 Squadron, based at RFC Stow Maries.

It was at Stow Maries that the squadron transitioned from the Royal Flying Corps to the Royal Air Force on April 1 1918.

The work was funded by the Essex Heritage Trust, a local charity, with the research and installation provided by the Queen's Award-winning volunteer team at Stow Maries Great War Aerodrome.

Photo: Stow Maries Great War Aerodrome

Phil Robinson, former Managing Director of Marconi Works, credited as the first purpose-built radio factory in the world, opened the exhibition.

He said: "The engineers who developed the radios to enable ground-to-air communication overcame considerable technical challenges in record time.

"Many of them were very young, with little or no technical training.

"They went on to achieve even more in the technological adversity presented by World War Two, and beyond."

The museum boasts Europe's largest collection of Royal Flying Corps WW1 buildings.

Originally opened in 1916, the aerodrome saw the birth of the Air Defence of Great Britain in response to the first raids by Zeppelins and Gotha bombers on London and the South East.

The museum is open to the public from 10am until 4pm, Friday to Sunday.

On May 29, the aerodrome will also host its signature 'Wings and Wheels' show.

For more information on the events on offer at the aerodrome this summer, visit the website.