RAF Hampdens: question on paint scheme

Hi,

At this URL...

http://homepages.paradise.net.nz/southfly/hampden.htm

I have posted several pictures of 489 NZ Sqn Hampdens. I am trying to
gather information on why one Hampden (XA-Y) appears to be painted in
an 'ocean' grey and sky scheme, yet images of both earlier and later
Hampdens from the sqn show them in Green/Brown/Black schemes. (Of
course, the photo dates could be wrong...).

Can anyone shed any light on this matter, please? Was it a trial
scheme, as I have only ever seen this Hampden wearing it?

I am gathering info on the aircraft flown by 489 Sqn with the aim of
publishing a book on the topic... any data anyone can provide is most
welcome, esp. with regard to the Beauforts and Blenheims initially
operated by the sqn.

I managed to view several photos of the Mosquitos the sqn operated at
the end on WWII, so hope to publish some profiles soon.

Thanks very much,
Ian

"Ian" wrote in message
om...
Hi,

At this URL...

http://homepages.paradise.net.nz/southfly/hampden.htm

I have posted several pictures of 489 NZ Sqn Hampdens. I am trying to
gather information on why one Hampden (XA-Y) appears to be painted in
an 'ocean' grey and sky scheme, yet images of both earlier and later
Hampdens from the sqn show them in Green/Brown/Black schemes. (Of
course, the photo dates could be wrong...).

Can anyone shed any light on this matter, please? Was it a trial
scheme, as I have only ever seen this Hampden wearing it?

I am gathering info on the aircraft flown by 489 Sqn with the aim of
publishing a book on the topic... any data anyone can provide is most
welcome, esp. with regard to the Beauforts and Blenheims initially
operated by the sqn.

I managed to view several photos of the Mosquitos the sqn operated at
the end on WWII, so hope to publish some profiles soon.

Thanks very much,
Ian

The RAF museum at Hendon might have some information, you can check them out
at www.rafmuseumshop.com

Regards,
BMC