Number Stations: How Spy Masters Talk to their Spies
Iain Betson
- Region:
- West Midlands
- Notice Period:
- Emergency (maybe less than one week's notice)
- Type:
- Professional
- Fee:
- Paid: Online delivery: £70.00. In-person: £90.00 plus 50p/mile expenses
- Category:
- History
- Updated:
- 5th October 2025
- Tagged:
- Spies | Spying | James Bond | Espionage
James Bond may use sophisticated gadgets to communicate with M, but if he was using those in the real world he would be caught quite quickly.
Since espionage began, spies have used simple methods to code and send messages. Even today, with digital technology, these methods are still the most secure and easy to conceal. Since World War 2, radio transmission technology has been used by spy-masters to issue instructions to their agents in the field.
In his talk, Iain Betson will let you into the secret, yet surprisingly open, world of high powered radio stations, broadcasting strange voices, speaking seemingly a meaningless series of numbers, letters or tones across the World. These stations, with their coded messages, were not just a part of the Cold War: They are on-air right now.
But what are these stations for? What do the messages mean? And who listens to them? Illustrated with sounds and images, in this talk you will be let in on the secret as to why spy’s used this simple communications method and asks: In spite of today's digital communications, are they still doing so today?
Views: 544 | Enquiries: 1About Iain Betson
Apart from two years, when he built nuclear missiles at a secret research centre, (true story!) and being a signatory of the Official Secrets Act as a result, Iain Betson has worked all his professional life in the television and radio broadcasting industry, both in the UK and internationally. A BBC trained radio engineer and training instructor, he trained many of the journalists you see and hear on UK radio and television news.
His talks both reflect his professional experience and interests. He is able to bring real-world knowledge to enhance the delivery.
Feel confident to book me
As a professional trainer, of many years standing, I have no worries in delivering my talks in front of an audience, be they online or in-person. I "de-jargon" the subject to make the talk accessible to all and can adjust my delivery to suit a varied audience. I am always willing to take questions at the end.
I have my own presentation equipment: laptop, (microphone if required) , projector and screen or can connect to a large TV monitor via the appropriate cables
I charge £40.00 for an online and £55.00 for in-person delivery for any talk. Mileage expense is charged at 50p/mile.
Testimonials
"Iain many thanks for your professionally delivered talk. It was very relevant in view of the Ukraine invasion. I will certainly keep you in mind for if I am asked for recommendations."
"Thank you for a most interesting and informative talk, which was enjoyed by all our members. I have to say that I don’t remember being as frightened in the 70s and 80s as when I heard your recordings from the time!"
Groups I have delivered to
- Civic and history societies
- Probus
- Engineering societies
- Rotary clubs
- U3A & senior learning groups
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