ZB-1 Radio Homing Adapter and Security Cover

A significant wartime innovation for naval aviators was the YE-ZB radio system, which enabled aviators to find their aircraft carrier without giving away its position.

The ship broadcast Morse code letters in 30-degree arcs. The aircrew flew a heading assigned to the letter. The signals were modulated so they would sound like static if heard without the ZB-1.

Caption:
The YE-ZB radio system enabled aviators to find their aircraft carrier without giving away its position.
Type: Artifact
Image Date: 2012
Credit: National Air and Space Museum, Smithsonian Institution
Origin: National Air and Space Museum, Smithsonian Institution
Creator: Eric Long
NASM2012-02133
Navigation Methods
 

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The YE-ZB radio system enabled aviators to find their aircraft carrier without giving away its position.

nasm2012-02134.jpg

The YE-ZB radio system enabled aviators to find their aircraft carrier without giving away its position.

nasm2012-02135.jpg

The YE-ZB radio system enabled aviators to find their aircraft carrier without giving away its position.