The Aeroplane and Armament Experimental Establishment RAF Plaque

Another very fine plaque that formed part of a small collection we have purchased, that we understand were displayed in a now defunct service club. This unit was formed at Upavon in December 1914 to test prototype & production aircraft. It was re-designated Aeroplane Experimental Station at Martlesham Heath on 16th October 1917, before becoming the Aeroplane Experimental Establishment on 16th March 1920. It was renamed again on 24th March 1924 'Aeroplane & Armament Experimental Establishment'. Famously they tested Spitfire prototype K5054 and in a report dated September 1936 entitled 'Handling trials of the Spitfire K-5054' summarised its flying qualities as : "The aeroplane is simple and easy to fly and has no vices. All controls are entirely satisfactory for this type and no modification to them is required, except that the elevator control might be improved by reducing the gear ratio between the control column and elevator. The controls are well harmonised and appear to give an excellent compromise between manoeuvrability and steadiness for shooting. Take-off and landing are straight for ward and easy". They were not wrong!

The unit transferred to Boscombe Down on 9th December 1939, when it was designated 'Aircraft & Armament Evaluation Establishment' (A&AEE). During WWII two squadrons were stationed with the A&AEE, tasked with testing aircraft and armaments and they also hosted the Empire Test Pilots School. One of the most illustrious aviators to serve with the A&AEE was 'Winkle Brown' and after a number of operational assignments, Lieutenant Brown was assigned to the Naval Test Squadron at the Establishment, in December 1943. Today 81 years later his legacy continues following privatisation, so now is part of the Qinetiq company and issues reports on testing of armaments, performance and acceptance trials for all new service aircraft and testing of 'rogue' handling aircraft.

Our crest is a fine example, that must date from before December 1939, is surmounted by a gilt Kings Crown, with the badge itself appearing to be hand painted and protected behind a Perspex panel, with the Latin motto below, reading "Probe Probare" meaning "To test properly". The crest features an Airman's Leather Glove grasping a metal Gauntlet. With an arrow, pointing skywards, behind. The glove and gauntlet symbolise the friendship between the flying and armament elements of the RAF whilst the arrow represents true flight.

It is attached to an oak hardwood shield that incorporates a recessed brass wall hanger to the back. It measures an impressive 10" x 7" (25 cm x 17.5 cm) and other than minor age related wear and slight fading to the Perspex, is in remarkably good original condition. A very scarce period plaque to an often-ignored backroom unit.