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Sempill British Aviation Mission to Japan
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Sempill British Aviation Mission to Japan
Underpart of machine. 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 19874686
© The Royal Aeronautical Society (National Aerospace Library)/ Mary Evans
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EDITORS COMMENTS
Step into the early days of aviation history with this rare and fascinating photograph from the Sempill British Aviation Mission to Japan. Led by Lord William Francis Forbes-Sempill, a Scottish peer and record-breaking air pioneer, this mission aimed to showcase the latest British aircraft in 1921. What's remarkable is that Sempill's involvement didn't stop there - he went on to secretly aid the Imperial Japanese Navy in developing its Navy Air Service and even shared military secrets with them.
This stunning glass lantern slide, part of the Royal Aeronautical Society Archive, offers a glimpse into a pivotal moment in aviation history. The image captures a piece of machinery underpart from one of these pioneering aircraft, showcasing the innovative technology that was being shared between nations at the time.
As we look back on this era, it's striking to consider how little was known about Sempill's activities during World War II. Despite his involvement with enemy forces, he was not prosecuted for spying and continued to hold public office until his death in 1965.
This image serves as a reminder of both the excitement and complexity of early aviation development. It also highlights the importance of understanding our past, including those who played complex roles in shaping global events.
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