The Royal Air Force (RAF) Museum in Hendon, London, has unveiled plans to restore a rare German bomber, which was shot down off the Kent coast during the Battle of Britain.

Part of an enemy formation targeting Essex airfields on 26 August 1940, the twin-engined Dornier is thought to be one of the last remaining aircraft of its kind and was discovered on the Goodwin Sands two years ago.

The museum has been working in partnership with Wessex Archeology on a survey of the wreck site and has now confirmed that it intends to restore and prepare the aircraft for display.

English Heritage and the Ministry of Defence is supporting the development of a recovery plan for the aircraft, which is set to form the centrepiece of the RAF Museum's recently announced Battle of Britain Beacon project.

RAF Museum director general Air Vice-Marshal Peter Dye said: "The discovery of the Dornier is of national and international importance. The aircraft is a unique and unprecedented survivor from The Battle of Britain.

"The Dornier will provide an evocative and moving exhibit that will allow the museum to present the wider story of the Battle of Britain and highlight the sacrifices made by the young men of both air forces and from many nations."

Image: Wessex Archaeology