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Sempill British Aviation Mission to Japan
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Sempill British Aviation Mission to Japan
Supermarine Channel Mk.II taxying on lake. 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 19874494
© The Royal Aeronautical Society (National Aerospace Library)/Mary Evans Picture Library
1921 Advise Consultation Forbes Sempill Francis Instruction Mission Seal Taxying 1922
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EDITORS COMMENTS
Taxying on the lake, this Supermarine Channel Mk.II aircraft is a symbol of innovation and international cooperation. In 1921, Lord Sempill's British Aviation Mission to Japan aimed to showcase the latest British aircraft technology to the Imperial Japanese Navy. Led by William Francis Forbes-Sempill, 19th Lord Sempill AFC, AFRAeS, this historic mission marked a significant moment in aviation history.
As an accomplished air pioneer and record-breaker, Sempill was instrumental in introducing cutting-edge British aircraft designs to Japan. His expertise not only facilitated knowledge sharing but also laid the groundwork for future collaborations between the two nations.
This photograph captures a pivotal moment in time when international relations were built upon mutual respect and admiration for innovation. The Supermarine Channel Mk.II's sleek design and impressive capabilities are on full display as it taxies across the lake's calm surface.
The story behind this image is complex, however. As we now know, Sempill's involvement with Japan went beyond mere diplomacy. He secretly shared classified information with the Imperial Japanese military before World War II began. Despite being uncovered by British Intelligence, he was allowed to continue his public life without prosecution.
This photograph serves as a reminder of both the power of collaboration and the blurred lines between friendship and espionage.
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