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Sempill British Aviation Mission to Japan
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Sempill British Aviation Mission to Japan
General View of Erecting Shop, Mens Quarters, Store Shed etc. 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 19874436
© The Royal Aeronautical Society (National Aerospace Library)/Mary Evans Picture Library
1921 Advise Consultation Erecting Instruction Mens Mission Quarters Shed Store 1922
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EDITORS COMMENTS
Step into the fascinating world of early 20th-century aviation with this photograph from the Sempill British Aviation Mission to Japan. Taken circa 1921, this image captures a general view of the erecting shop, men's quarters, and store shed at the Imperial Japanese Navy's airbase. The mission was led by William Francis Forbes-Sempill, 19th Lord Sempill AFC, AFRAeS (1893-1965), a Scottish peer and record-breaking air pioneer who would later be revealed to have passed secret information to the Imperial Japanese military before World War II.
As part of his official military mission, Sempill showcased the latest British aircraft in Japan and continued to aid the Imperial Japanese Navy in developing its Navy Air Service. His involvement went beyond mere consultation, as he began sharing sensitive military secrets with his new allies. Although his activities were eventually uncovered by British Intelligence, Sempill escaped prosecution and remained a prominent figure in public life.
This rare photograph offers a glimpse into an intriguing period of history when international relations were still evolving and technological advancements were rapidly changing global dynamics. It is a testament to Lord Sempill's enduring legacy as both an aviator and diplomat.
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