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Sempill British Aviation Mission to Japan
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Sempill British Aviation Mission to Japan
Captain The Master of Sempill standing on DH.80A Puss Moth (G-aVB). William Francis Forbes-Sempill, 19th Lord Sempill AFC, AFRAeS (1893-1965) was a Scottish peer and record-breaking air pioneer who was later shown to have passed secret information to the Imperial Japanese military before the Second World War. In 1921, Sempill led an official military mission to Japan that showcased the latest British aircraft. In subsequent years he continued to aid the Imperial Japanese Navy in developing its Navy Air Service and began giving military secrets to the Japanese. Although his activities were uncovered by British Intelligence, Sempill was not prosecuted for spying and allowed to continue in public life. Date: 1920s
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Media ID 19874856
© The Royal Aeronautical Society (National Aerospace Library)/ Mary Evans
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EDITORS COMMENTS
Step into the pioneering era of aviation with this rare and fascinating photograph from the Sempill British Aviation Mission to Japan. Captained by William Francis Forbes-Sempill, 19th Lord Sempill, this historic mission in the 1920s showcased the latest British aircraft to Japanese officials and military personnel. As a record-breaking air pioneer, Sempill was renowned for his flying skills and innovative spirit. However, his involvement with the Imperial Japanese Navy's development of its Navy Air Service would later raise questions about his loyalty.
This remarkable image captures Lord Sempill standing proudly on the wing of a DH.80A Puss Moth (G-aVB), a biplane that played a significant role in introducing cutting-edge British aviation technology to Japan. The photo is part of an extensive archive held by the Royal Aeronautical Society, providing a unique glimpse into an important chapter in aviation history.
As we gaze upon this vintage print, we are reminded of the complex web of international relationships forged during times of peace and war. This image serves as a poignant reminder that even those who achieve great heights can sometimes be shrouded in controversy.
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