File:Heinkel He111H-20-R1 ‘701152’ (33117187136).jpg

The RAF Museum chose to celebrate the 100th Anniversary of the service by dismantling and closing the museum dedicated to its finest hour, the Battle of Britain Museum. Every cloud has a silver lining, however, and during May 2016 the aircraft were in a part dismantled state, allowing for some interesting photos.

Built in 1944, this was a transport variant with seats for 16 paratroops. Recovered in airworthy condition at the end of the war, it was allocated to the USAAF for evaluation in the United States. It remained in Europe, however, and joined the 56th Fighter Group at Boxted as a mascot / transport aircraft. During this time it was painted in full 56FG markings. When the unit returned to the US in September 1945 the aircraft was flown to Heston, and then to Farnborough in November 1945. In 1947 it was selected for museum use and stored. It remained in store at various locations (including Biggin Hill) except for a couple of brief public appearances. At this time it was painted overall black. In 1967 it was used to assist with the making of the ‘Battle of Britain’ film at RAF Henlow, and then moved to RAF St Athan where some restoration work was carried out and the aircraft painted into a factory colour scheme. In 1978 it went on permanent display in the Battle of Britain Hall, where it remained until 2016. RAF Museum, Hendon, London, UK.