Battle of britain special effects test

Hi everyone, duderank posting for the first time on the subject of the “Battle of Britain” movie. I understand there exists footage of a novel way of depicting the films Me109s being “shot down” that was tested but not utilised due to very obvious safety issues. It had something to do with a contrivance designed to shoot out flames from beneath the wings of a Buchon. Has anyone seen this footage and can tell me if it was tested air to air as I suspect it might, and are there any photographs of this?

“Aeroplane” Magazine held a convention to celebrate the 30th Anniversary of the movie and this was held at Duxford in September 1999. A considerable amount of “behind the scenes” footage was shown at the convention and this included footage taken by the Pinewood Art Dept (colour,probably 16mm) showing a flame generating device fitted to a Buchon.

We saw a Buchon on the ground fitted with a pipe like device under one wing. When it was fired a huge jet of flame shot out behind the pipe.

I don’t know if this device was ever used in the air – perhaps it was too dangerous. Perhaps if you contacted Tony Harmsworth of “Aeroplane” Magazine (who was MC at the event) he might know more about this.

Colin

There have been numerous discussions on the film in the past. Have a search for them. I’m not sure if this was brought up before, although it is ringing a few bells with me for some reason!

By the way, welcome to the forum.