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Showing results for tags 'Whitley MkV'.
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Bit of a random one here. I'm try to track down any details on a Whitley that was pinched by the Radar Research group of the Air Ministry to be used as a testbed for the sideways-looking 1.5m wavelength long range air to surface vessel radar installation (for Uboat detection). From what I have found this appears to have been done in late 1939 or perhaps (I suspect more likely) in February 1940. The only possible identifier I've found is from this source, which suggests the aircraft had code J-DY / DY-J which, I guess making it ex- 102 squadron, and could be a Mk III or V. An aircraft of those markings landed in Belgium on 8th Sept '39 after a leaflet drop sortie and was eventually lost to bombing; I didn't see any other losses from that squadron until commencement of bombing operations in April '40, which may suggest the 'next' DY-J was the aircraft ultimately used. I've got very little other information other than after testing, the aircraft ended up at St. Athan on 17th August 1940, where 32 MU and RAE installed similar radar to more Whitleys. (source Airborne Maritime Surveillance Radar, Volume 1: Volume 1, British ASV Radars in WWII 1939-1945 (IOP Concise Physics)) which one can currently read the relevant parts online, amazon 'look inside' for example). Pretty random one there, I don't expect any results, but thought I'd ask. Also don't know whether it was likely to have retained its camouflage and markings during the testing period; and if not what would have replaced them. Bonus question for 10, I'm unclear which was the first coastal command squadron to use this radar, possibly 502? Thanks for any help! Andy -
Dear Colleagues I made this Airfix Whitley MkV of 58 Squadron Linton on Ouse 1940 before lockdown. I looked again and thought I could improve a little on the finish using Ammo oilbrushers and dry brush paint. So had another go and then gave a second coat of flat. Not quite nailed the photography, as these large aircraft are something of a challenge. Interested to hear your thoughts? Flightpath tractor, Gunthwaite figures and Airfix bowser form the diorama Andrew
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