WW2 German V-1 Flying Bomb Tail Rudder-Elevator Section – 1944 Crash Relic – Kent

A rare and historically significant original tail rudder elevator section from a German V-1 flying bomb (Fieseler Fi 103), recovered from the crash site of a V-1 which came down in 1944 in Orlestone Forest, near Shadoxhurst, Ashford, Kent.

The V-1 flying bomb — often referred to as the “buzz bomb” or “doodlebug” — was one of Germany’s early cruise missiles used during WWII against targets in southern England, particularly London and Kent. These weapons were powered by a pulsejet engine and featured simple control surfaces, including a rudder- elevator mounted on the vertical tail fin, used for directional stability and guidance. Original detailed number stencilled inside (see Photo’s)

Item Details:
Type: Tail rudder section (vertical- stabiliser- elevator control surface)
Material: Riveted aluminium construction (typical wartime manufacture)
Date: Circa 1944
Origin: Recovered from crash site in Orlestone Forest, Kent
Provenance: Locally recovered relic, likely retained as a wartime souvenir
Condition: As recovered – shows expected age, corrosion, and impact-related wear consistent with crash debris
Historical Context:

V-1 flying bombs were launched in large numbers during 1944 as part of Germany’s “Vengeance Weapons” campaign. Many were intercepted or crashed across Kent, making the area rich in recovered relics. Surviving original components — especially identifiable structural parts like rudders — elevators are increasingly scarce and sought after by collectors of WWII aviation and militaria.

Collectability:

Original V-1 components are highly collectable due to:

Their direct connection to wartime Britain
Limited surviving examples with known recovery locations
Strong interest in aviation and missile history

Comparable examples of V-1 rudders-elevators have sold at auction for around £3,600 , with private sales sometimes reaching similar levels depending on condition and provenance.