Last of the Royal Navy Historic Flight's aircraft finds new home with Navy Wings

The iconic Fairey Swordfish, the biplane that became a symbol of the Royal Navy's wartime might, is taking on a new mission – not in battle, but in keeping history alive.

The Fairey Swordfish MkII (LS326) is the latest addition to the Fly Navy Heritage Trust, joining a growing collection of historic aircraft operated by the charity Navy Wings.

This aircraft, gifted by the MOD, will remain in flying condition, offering a living tribute to the Royal Navy's Fleet Air Arm and its legacy.

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The Fairey Swordfish, often referred to as the "Stringbag" due to its versatility, is one of the most iconic aircraft in Royal Navy history.

A biplane torpedo bomber designed in the early 1930s, it played a pivotal role in several major engagements during the Second World War.

A force of just 21 Swordfish led the audacious night-time attack on the Italian fleet at Taranto in 1940, a strike that crippled Italy's naval capabilities and demonstrated the power of carrier-based air strikes.

The Swordfish also played a crucial role in the sinking of the German battleship Bismarck in May 1941.

A torpedo launched from a Swordfish, flying from HMS Ark Royal, struck Bismarck's rudder, jamming it in place and leaving the ship unable to manoeuvre.

This allowed Royal Navy warships to catch and destroy the formidable German vessel.

The Swordfish is the last remaining aircraft from the Royal Navy Historic Flight, a collection that was disbanded in 2018.

While four aircraft were transferred to Navy Wings in 2020, LS326 was retained temporarily as its transfer conditions were clarified.

Now, with ownership formally passing to Navy Wings, LS326 will continue to be a part of the Royal Navy's aviation heritage for future generations to learn from and appreciate.

The value of the gift is around £495,000, and the aircraft will be used for commemorative and educational purposes, furthering Navy Wings' mission to preserve and share the Royal Navy's aviation history.

The Fly Navy Heritage Trust, operating under the umbrella of Navy Wings, has been maintaining and flying some of the Royal Navy's most treasured aircraft since the 1990s.

As Navy Wings expands its aircraft collection, it ensures that the stories of those who served are kept alive – no longer just a part of history, but a living, flying legacy.