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RAF Broadwell, a WW2 airbase situated a couple of miles west of Carterton and modern-day RAF Brize Norton, opened on 15th November 1943 under RAF Transport Command, and closed on 31st March 1947. Link As part of No. 46 Group along with nearby bases RAF Down Ampney and RAF Blakehill Farm, it took part in the invasion of Europe including D-Day and Arnhem. No.512 and No. 575 Squadrons were based there, flying the Douglas Dakota, training for glider towing and parachute dropping. On the eve of D-Day, No. 575 Squadron dropped 5 Para into the invasion zone, and on 6 June, towed 21 Horsa gliders loaded with troops and supplies into France. In September 1944, it was involved at Arnhem, where the Squadron suffered severe casualties.

In 2012, the evidence of the airbase still visible included control tower, bomb store, operations block, hut bases, blast shelters, remains of runways and aircraft dispersals, and more. Link Today although a public bridleway runs across the middle of the site, much of it is covered by a solar farm with strong security to keep out trespassers. However, several features still remain visible from the bridleway and the road.