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Sempill British Aviation Mission to Japan
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Sempill British Aviation Mission to Japan
Over No Mans Land. 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 19874690
© The Royal Aeronautical Society (National Aerospace Library)/ Mary Evans
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EDITORS COMMENTS
Step back in time to the 1920s and witness a pivotal moment in aviation history with this rare glass lantern slide from the Royal Aeronautical Society Archive. The image captures Lord Sempill's British Aviation Mission to Japan, led by William Francis Forbes-Sempill, 19th Lord Sempill AFC, AFRAeS (1893-1965). This esteemed Scottish peer was not only a record-breaking air pioneer but also a complex figure whose actions would later raise eyebrows.
In 1921, Sempill's mission showcased the latest British aircraft to Japanese officials, marking an important step in international cooperation between nations. However, his subsequent activities took a more sinister turn as he continued to aid the Imperial Japanese Navy in developing its Navy Air Service and shared military secrets with them. Although his espionage was eventually uncovered by British Intelligence, Sempill escaped prosecution and continued to enjoy public life.
This unique photograph offers a glimpse into the fascinating yet controversial career of Lord Sempill. It serves as a reminder of the blurred lines between diplomacy and deception during times of great change and upheaval. The image is now available for historical study and appreciation through Mary Evans Prints Online.
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