Gatow Airport: Unlocking Berlins Military History Museum Secrets

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Gatow Airport, a former British Royal Air Force (RAF) base, is a treasure trove of military history and aviation enthusiasts' dreams. Located in the Spandau district of Berlin, Germany, the airport has been transformed into the German Museum of Technology's (Deutsches Technikmuseum) military history museum, showcasing a vast collection of aircraft, vehicles, and artifacts. In this article, we will delve into the secrets and stories behind Gatow Airport's military history museum, exploring its significance, exhibits, and the restoration process that has brought this piece of history to life.

A Brief History of Gatow Airport

Gatow Airport was originally built in 1935 as a German military airfield, serving as a hub for the Luftwaffe, the German air force, during World War II. After the war, the airport was taken over by the British Royal Air Force (RAF) and used as a base for their Berlin operations. In 1994, the RAF withdrew from Gatow, and the airport was officially closed.

The Transformation into a Museum

In 1995, the German Museum of Technology (Deutsches Technikmuseum) took over the airport and began transforming it into a military history museum. The museum's collection includes over 200 aircraft, 150 vehicles, and numerous artifacts, making it one of the largest military history museums in Europe.

Exhibits and Displays

The museum's exhibits are divided into several sections, including:

• Aircraft Collection: The museum showcases a vast collection of aircraft, including World War II planes, Cold War-era jets, and modern military aircraft.
• Vehicle Collection: The museum features a range of military vehicles, including tanks, trucks, and motorcycles.
• Uniforms and Equipment: A collection of military uniforms, equipment, and personal items provides a glimpse into the daily lives of soldiers.
• Aviation History: Exhibits on the history of aviation, including the development of flight and the impact of war on aviation.

Restoration Process

The restoration process at Gatow Airport has been a labor of love, with many volunteers and experts working tirelessly to bring the aircraft and vehicles back to their former glory.

• Aircraft Restoration: The museum has a dedicated team of restorers who work on restoring the aircraft to their original condition.
• Vehicle Restoration: The vehicle collection is also being restored, with many vehicles already on display.

Visiting the Museum

Visitors to the museum can explore the exhibits, attend guided tours, and participate in special events and workshops.

• Guided Tours: Guided tours are available in several languages, providing visitors with a deeper understanding of the museum's exhibits.
• Special Events: The museum hosts various events throughout the year, including airshows, reenactments, and lectures.

Conclusion

Gatow Airport's military history museum is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in military history, aviation, or technology. The museum's vast collection of aircraft, vehicles, and artifacts provides a unique glimpse into the past, while the restoration process ensures that these historical treasures are preserved for future generations.

We invite you to share your thoughts and experiences about Gatow Airport's military history museum in the comments below. Have you visited the museum? What were your favorite exhibits or displays? Share your stories and photos with us!

Gallery of Gatow Airport Military History Museum

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