Anti-aircraft guns in action during an air raid on Malta, c. 1941

This photograph shows British anti-aircraft guns in action during an air raid on the island of Malta during the Second World War. The islands was a British fortress and essential to the war effort. The RAF operated from airfields to try and protect it.

It was therefore a key target for the Germans and Italians, who targeted the island. Malta endured a relentless, prolonged attack lasting 154 days and nights with a total of 6,700 bombs dropped. There were a total of 3,343 air raids - making Malta the most bombed place in the world. In recognition of their trauma and endurance, the entire island of Malta was awarded the George Cross, Britain’s highest civilian honour for bravery.