The 72-series beacon transmitted a narrow rotating signal that an aircrew could interpret with a synchronized watch to find a reciprocal bearing to the carrier. Its bearing was crude by modern precision-navigation standards, yet it created a workable recovery area around the ship. Hooded lights and short-lived float lights then helped make the final approach without advertising the carrier to every observer at sea. Destroyers guarded the illuminated float trail, turning a necessary recovery aid into a possible trap for an enemy following it toward the carrier.
Notable Point · 45:35-53:31
The beacon system that brought aircraft home
Rotating carrier beacons gave aircraft a timed bearing home, reducing the need to expose a carrier with visible lights.