Salisbury Plain is the UK's largest military training area, measuring approximately 25 miles across and ten miles from top to toe. This history of the Plain examines how the military has used and developed the area since the land was first purchased towards the end of the 19th century. It has since seen major changes in the organization of the Army, witnessed the testing and development of numerous weapon systems, and was the birthplace of Britain's military aviation. During both world wars the extensive tract was utilized by British, Commonwealth, and American troops. The Plain was also central to the development of tank warfare, and Larkhill has become synonymous with the Royal Artillery and generations of Gunners everywhere.