Home > Europe > United Kingdom > Scotland > Aviation
Sempill British Aviation Mission to Japan
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Mary Evans Picture Library
Sempill British Aviation Mission to Japan
Sailors masquerading in High Hats. 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
Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries
Media ID 19874548
© The Royal Aeronautical Society (National Aerospace Library)/ Mary Evans
FEATURES IN THESE COLLECTIONS
> Asia
> Japan
> Related Images
> Europe
> United Kingdom
> Scotland
> Aviation
> Europe
> United Kingdom
> Scotland
> Related Images
> Historic
> World War I and II
> Airplanes and aviation
> Mary Evans Prints Online
> Royal Aeronautical Society Collection
> Photographic Collection
> Sempill British Aviation Mission to
> Services
> Royal Navy
EDITORS COMMENTS
Stealthy Diplomacy: Sempill's Masquerade in Japan (1920s)
In this intriguing photograph, a group of British sailors, led by Lord William Francis Forbes-Sempill, pose proudly in high hats and formal attire during the Sempill British Aviation Mission to Japan. The mission, which took place in the 1920s, aimed to showcase the latest British aircraft technology to their Japanese counterparts. What appears to be a routine diplomatic visit on the surface belies a more sinister reality.
Unbeknownst to many at the time, Lord Sempill was secretly passing classified information to the Imperial Japanese Navy, aiding their development of naval aviation capabilities. His actions would later come under scrutiny by British Intelligence, yet he escaped prosecution and continued his public life without repercussions.
This rare glass lantern slide from the Royal Aeronautical Society Archive offers a glimpse into an era of complex international relations and clandestine dealings. As we gaze upon these formally attired individuals, we are reminded that even in times of apparent diplomacy and camaraderie, hidden agendas can shape history.
MADE IN THE USA
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools
SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you
* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Cart.
