German WWII bomber raised from English Channel

WWII Dornier bomber was shot down by fighter pilots in the Battle of Britain in 1940.

09:04 12 June 2013

RAF museum’s £600,000 project was a success after German WWII Dornier bomber, which is the only one left according to military historians, was raised from the English Channel.

 

According to reports, the unique aircraft, which was nicknamed “flying pencil” due of its narrow fuselage, will be restored and displayed as a reminder of the young men who lost their lives in the battle.

 

The aircraft, which is said to be in remarkable condition, was salvaged from 50ft of water on Goodwin Sands, off the Deal coast in Kent.

 

Peter Dye, RAF Museum’s director general, said: “The discovery and recovery of the Dornier is of national and international importance. The aircraft is a unique and unprecedented survivor from the Battle of Britain and the Blitz.”

 

He added: “It will provide an evocative and moving exhibit that will allow the museum to present the wider story of the Battle of Britain and highlight the sacrifices made by the young men of both air forces. It is a project that has reconciliation and remembrance at its heart.”