This so-called Horsa Glider is a replica of the aircraft that were used during the Second World War. Special about this device is that original parts have been used to complete it. There are only two of these around the world. The glider comes from an RAF base near Birmingham. The aircraft has been in a hangar there for a long time, but is now being given a nice place in the Overloon War Museum after restoration.
Approximately four thousand Horsa Gliders were produced until 1946. None of these devices have been preserved. That is why this exact replica with original parts is a very special asset to the museum. The Horsa is twenty meters long and has a wingspan of no less than 27 meters.
In recent months, a team of experts has been working on the device. Where the wings could not yet be mounted in Oosterbeek, both wings are placed on the aircraft in Overloon. The Royal Netherlands Air Force and Army are doing their part to ensure that the Horsa Glider can be admired in its full glory in the museum. At the moment 3D adapters are being made so that the wings can be made final on the device at the end of this year.
During World War II, Horsa gliders were first used in Norway in November 1942. Later they also deployed in the invasion of Sicily, during D-Day, in large numbers during Operation Market Garden with landing zones in and around Wolfheze and Nijmegen and also in Operation Varsity. These aircraft were not only used to transport airborne troops, but also for means of transport such as jeeps, trailers, bicycles and motorcycles, but also heavy weapons such as cannons. With the arrival of these wooden gliders, troops were able to land close to their target.
