‘Stringbag’ delights aircraft enthusiasts

The Swordfish LS326, which landed at BAE Systems factory in Brough after being displayed at the Southport Air Show, is one of only three surviving from World War Two.

Engineers and craftsmen at Brough have spent the last two years working to replace the wing spars, tailplane, fin, cabane struts and slats of the aircraft. The work required finding specialist steels from Europe as well as the complete redrawing and custom-making of obsolete components.

Brough site director Nigel Blenkinsop, said: “We have a long tradition of building naval aircraft, like the Buccaneer, the Phantom, and the Sea Harrier. Wherever possible we like to support endeavours like the restoration of the Swordfish.

“Our site has some of the most advanced engineering and manufacturing engineers in the country, and they relish the challenge of a restoration project such as this.”

The Swordfish, or “string bag” as the plane was nicknamed, was the last British bi-plane to see active service and was used until the end of the war as a torpedo bomber and reconnaissance aircraft.

The aircraft is most famous for the role it played in the sinking of the Bismarck, and is also remembered for protecting convoys from U-boats in the Atlantic and its role in the attack on the Italian Fleet at Taranto in November 1940.

Restoration team member Andy Ayre, who was treated to a flight in the aircraft, said: “It has been a labour of love to return this aircraft to the skies. We have had to return to traditional manufacturing techniques like sewing and taping the aircraft’s skin to the airframe. But while you’re working on it you recall its history and it makes you determined to restore it to its former glory.”