Messerschmitt Bf 109G-2/Trop, WNr. 10639, "Black 6"
History
Built in Leipzig in September 1942, this Bf 109G-2/Trop was deployed to North Africa, where it served with 8./JG77.After a brief operational period, it was damaged in combat and subsequently flown to Gambut Main for repairs. However, with the advancing Allied forces, the aircraft was abandoned near Tobruk in early November 1942. The aircraft was discovered by the Allies and, due to its significance as one of the first G-model 109s captured, was sent to the UK for evaluation. The Royal Air Force allocated it the serial number RN228 and operated it with the 1426 Enemy Aircraft Flight at RAF Collyweston for combat trials against Allied aircraft .
After the war, the aircraft was stored for many years. In 1972, efforts to restore it began, and by 1987, the engine had been refitted to the airframe following a rebuild by Rolls-Royce at Bristol. The aircraft made its first post-restoration flight on 17 March 1991 at RAF Benson. It was then flown to Duxford for display before being transferred to the RAF Museum.On 12 October 1997, during its last planned flight before being handed over to the RAF Museum, the aircraft was substantially damaged in a landing accident at Duxford. Subsequently, it was restored to static display condition and arrived at the RAF Museum in Cosford in March 2002 .
Today, "Black 6" is displayed in Hangar Two at the RAF Museum Cosford, showcasing its historical significance and the technical advancements of the Luftwaffe during World War II .