Off Eagle Way
Martlesham Heath
(01473) 624510

Situated four miles east of Ipswich, Martlesham Heath Aviation Society Control Tower Museum depicts the aviation history from 1916-1979, of this important and unusual Royal Air Force Station. For a while [from 9th October 1943] it was also a U.S.A.A.F. Station.

The site actually commenced work as an aircraft and armament development site for The Royal Flying Corps on 16th January 1917. In 1924 it became the Aeroplane and Armament Experimental Establishment [A&AEE], testing aircraft for both military and civilian aircraft, this unit still exists today at Boscombe Down.

During World War II, RAF No 264 Squadron arrived, followed by almost all the well known squadrons of No 11 Group Fighter Command. Many of the best-known pilots of the era, including Douglas Bader, were stationed at Martlesham. Group Captain Peter Townsend was there with 85 Squadron Hurricanes.

In 1941 - Three R.A.F. "Eagle" Squadrons - manned by American Volunteer pilots, flew from Martlesham Heath.

On 9th October 1943 American P47D's ["Thunderbolts"] of the 356th USAAF Fighter Group arrived. The Americans later re-equipped with "Mustang" fighters. Many combat missions over occupied Europe were flown from the base.

After WW2, the base reverted to RAF Control - becoming the original home of The Battle of BritainMemorial Flight. Other Units such as The Blind Landing Experimental Unit [B.L.E.U.] - which helped develop the techniques and technologies used to land airliners today - worked at Martlesham Heath. The airfield closed as a working airfield in 1979.

For opening times and further information, visit:- www.mhas.org.uk