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Sempill British Aviation Mission to Japan
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Sempill British Aviation Mission to Japan
DH.80A Puss Moth (G-aVB) at jetty with Dornier Do J Bas Wal (CMASA built) seaplane (D-1397). 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 19874846
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EDITORS COMMENTS
Step back in time to the 1920s and witness a pivotal moment in aviation history with this stunning photograph of the Sempill British Aviation Mission to Japan. Led by William Francis Forbes-Sempill, 19th Lord Sempill AFC, AFRAeS (1893-1965), this mission showcased the latest British aircraft to Japanese officials and military personnel. The image captures a DH.80A Puss Moth (G-aVB) at the jetty alongside a Dornier Do J Bas Wal (CMASA built) seaplane (D-1397). This remarkable moment marked the beginning of a long-term collaboration between Sempill and the Imperial Japanese Navy, which would ultimately lead to him sharing sensitive military secrets with his new allies.
As an accomplished air pioneer, Sempill's contributions to aviation were undeniable. However, his actions during World War II raised questions about his loyalty and integrity. Despite being exposed for passing secret information to Japan, he was not prosecuted for spying and continued to enjoy public life.
This rare glass lantern slide from the Royal Aeronautical Society Archive offers a unique glimpse into this fascinating period of aviation history. It is now available through Mary Evans Prints Online under Rights Managed terms.
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