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Sempill British Aviation Mission to Japan
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Sempill British Aviation Mission to Japan
New Central Hangars under erection - Air view. 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: circa 1921
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Media ID 19874442
© The Royal Aeronautical Society (National Aerospace Library)/Mary Evans Picture Library
1921 Advise Consultation Erection Hangars Instruction Mission 1922
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EDITORS COMMENTS
Step back in time to the early 1920s and witness the dawn of a significant moment in aviation history. This aerial view captures the construction of new central hangars at an airbase, as part of the Sempill British Aviation Mission to Japan. Led by William Francis Forbes-Sempill, 19th Lord Sempill AFC, AFRAeS (1893-1965), this mission aimed to showcase the latest British aircraft technology to Japanese officials.
As we gaze upon this remarkable scene, it's hard not to be struck by the sense of innovation and progress that defined this era. The sprawling hangars seem almost futuristic, a testament to human ingenuity and ambition. But what lies beneath the surface is a more complex story - one that would have far-reaching consequences for international relations and global politics.
Lord Sempill's mission was not only about sharing knowledge but also about building relationships with key figures in Japan's military establishment. His subsequent ties with Imperial Japanese Navy officials would ultimately lead him down a path of espionage, as he provided sensitive information and advice on naval aviation matters.
This photograph serves as a poignant reminder of both the triumphs and controversies surrounding Lord Sempill's legacy. As we marvel at these historic images, we are reminded that even in times of great progress and discovery, there can be hidden agendas at play.
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