The Royal Air Force Museum Laarbruch-Weeze is located at the former RAF Laarbruch (also known as RAF Weeze), an airbase in Weeze, Germany, which played a significant role during the Cold War as part of the United Kingdom’s military presence in Europe. The museum showcases the history of the base, the role of the Royal Air Force (RAF) in Europe, and the evolution of military aviation in the region.

Royal Air Force Museum Laarbruch- Weeze

Flughafen-Ring 6

47652 Weeze

Germany

www.laarbruch-museum.net

laarbruch-museum@t-online.de

+49 2837 95301

Friday, Saturday and Sunday 14:00 – 17:00

Winter break: Mid December to beginning March

Admission fee

Aircraft collection

XV337 WH773 WH849 XL578/77 BGA2210/539

Blackburn Buccaneer (cockpit) English Electric Canberra PR.7 English Electric Canberra T.4 (cockpit) Hawker Hunter T.7 Slingsby T.45 Swallow

Key Attractions and Exhibits

1. History of RAF Laarbruch
   • The museum focuses on the history of RAF Laarbruch, which was an important airbase for the Royal Air Force from its opening in 1953 until its closure in 2002.
   • RAF Laarbruch served as a NATO base during the Cold War, hosting fighter jets, bombers, and transport aircraft. It was strategically important for the defense of Western Europe against potential threats from the Eastern Bloc.
   • The museum offers detailed insights into the day-to-day operations of the base, including life on the base, the role of the RAF, and the technological advancements in military aviation during this period.
2. Aircraft Displays
   • The Royal Air Force Museum Laarbruch- Weeze features a variety of aircraft that were used at RAF Laarbruch during its operational years. These include:

   • English Electric Canberra PR.7

   • Hawker Hunter T.7

3. RAF and NATO History
   • The museum explores the role of NATO and the RAF in the post-World War II era, focusing on the critical Cold War period.
   • Displays include information about the Berlin Airlift, nuclear deterrence, and the RAF’s contribution to NATO defense in Europe.
   • The museum highlights the technological advancements in military aviation, including the development of jet engines, radar systems, and communications equipment.
4. Cold War and Nuclear Deterrence
   • The Royal Air Force Museum Laarbruch- Weeze explores the strategic role RAF Laarbruch played during the Cold War, particularly in terms of nuclear deterrence.
   • Bunker complexes, missile systems, and the role of the base in the broader context of nuclear strategy are explained in-depth, offering visitors a look at the tense geopolitics of the time.
5. Personal Stories and Memories
   • The museum also features personal accounts, memorabilia, and photographs from the personnel who served at RAF Laarbruch. These provide a human dimension to the history, illustrating the everyday experiences of those stationed at the base and their families.
   • The museum collects stories about life on the base, the social and cultural activities of the personnel, and the relationships between the RAF and the local community in Weeze.
6. The Role of Women in the RAF
   • One section of the Royal Air Force Museum Laarbruch- Weeze is dedicated to the role of women in the RAF, highlighting the contributions of women in various roles at the airbase, from administrative positions to engineering and technical roles.
7. Memorial to RAF Personnel
   • The museum features a memorial to those who served at RAF Laarbruch, commemorating the lives of those who lost their lives in service. It reflects the significance of the airbase not only as a military installation but also as a community hub for personnel and their families.