Major Alexander Sanderson served as Commanding Officer of the 3rd Australian Tunnelling Company during WWI, after which he relocated to England. Through WWII, he oversaw damage repairs to London transport. During this time he submitted proposals to the Minister of Aircraft Production for the design of VTOL tilt-engine aircraft. Although the designs were not successful, they illustrate the dynamics of scientific developments during wartime, when unconventional ideas and establishing a technological advantage over enemies were seen as essential elements in winning the war.