“Backbone” Microwave system

[Sad Sprinter]

One of my other interests is the BT Microwave transmission system. I’ve researched it a bit still confused of the purpose of the “backbone” system, which seemed to be a hardened system within the wider transmission system to link defence sites. Am I correct in this? And if so, is there any function for the seemingly random end termination points of the system in the middle of nowhere like Shrewsbury? The link below to a fantastic website provides a comprehensive map of the system.

Backbone: BT Microwave Sites

 

[JamesT]

One of my other interests is the BT Microwave transmission system. I’ve researched it a bit still confused of the purpose of the “backbone” system, which seemed to be a hardened system within the wider transmission system to link defence sites. Am I correct in this? And if so, is there any function for the seemingly random end termination points of the system in the middle of nowhere like Shrewsbury? The link below to a fantastic website provides a comprehensive map of the system.

Backbone: BT Microwave Sites

Wasn’t the microwave system more the precursor to the modern fibre optic network connecting the UK? It may still have some use for the military as there’s no cables to cut.
I would suggest RAF Cosford being near Shrewsbury might be a reason for the branch out that way.

 

[DarloRich]

is this not a cold war "survivable" communication system carrying both TV, radio and, erm, "governmental" comms traffic? Looking at the maps most of the sites seem to be near bunkers, regional seats of government, defence centres or radar sites

 

[dangie]

I live close(ish) to the Pye Green tower on Cannock Chase. I cycle past it frequently and often wonder what it is now used for. There doesn’t appear to be anywhere near as many aerials or dishes as there used to be. Can anyone give some information please?

Note: Apologies for the names ‘aerials & dishes’, I don’t know the correct terminology

 

[najaB]

One of my other interests is the BT Microwave transmission system. I’ve researched it a bit still confused of the purpose of the “backbone” system, which seemed to be a hardened system within the wider transmission system to link defence sites. Am I correct in this? And if so, is there any function for the seemingly random end termination points of the system in the middle of nowhere like Shrewsbury? The link below to a fantastic website provides a comprehensive map of the system.

Backbone: BT Microwave Sites

Yup. You've pretty much got it in one. The intention was to provide a redundant link between key MoD and other government sites. As to why there were links that appear to go to the middle of nowhere, the old "I could tell you, but then I'd have to kill you" applies. It's a fair guess that there are/were sensitive facilities nearby.

 

[Carlisle]

I live close(ish) to the Pye Green tower on Cannock Chase. I cycle past it frequently and often wonder what it is now used for.

If it’s anything like the old microwave tower in Carlisle, i think it’s mainly just Arqiva & the mobile networks.Whilst all the old equipment’s been removed from the tower itself the surrounding buildings still appear to contain everything despite being disused for many years.

 

[Pete_uk]

Image is a map of the main 'Backbone' system used for radio links during a nuclear war.