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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) on 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 19874848
© 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 photograph of the Sempill British Aviation Mission to Japan. Led by William Francis Forbes-Sempill, 19th Lord Sempill AFC, AFRAeS, this official military mission showcased the latest British aircraft to Japanese officials. The DH.80A Puss Moth (G-AVB) is seen here on land, its sleek design and advanced technology leaving a lasting impression on those who saw it.
This historic image is part of the Royal Aeronautical Society archive and provides a unique glimpse into the early days of international cooperation in aviation. However, what makes this story even more intriguing is that Lord Sempill's involvement with Japan did not end with his official mission. He went on to secretly aid the Imperial Japanese Navy in developing its air service and share sensitive military information with them.
Despite being uncovered by British Intelligence for his espionage activities, Lord Sempill was allowed to continue living publicly without consequence. This enigmatic figure remains an important figure in both British and Japanese aviation history, raising questions about loyalty, duty, and morality during times of war.
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