A journey through the history of naval aviation

Initiated by the commander of the naval air base at the time, this unique place aims to preserve and share the history of the Aéronautique Navale, particularly on this Mediterranean coast, which has proven essential for the establishment of the navy, notably in Toulon, and for naval aviation since 1911 in Saint-Raphaël.

MARITIME AVIATION The work, launched in 2021, made it possible to restore the building and create several rooms dedicated to the history of naval aviation, formerly referred to as maritime aviation, offering 300 m² of indoor exhibition space and an outdoor area. This name change reflects the evolution of this component of the Marine, with highlights such as the aircraft carrier Charles de Gaulle and the Rafale fighter, often mentioned in the media.

This exhibition space consists of several thematic rooms, each telling a facet of the history of naval aviation. The Bar Flottille, the first room, is intended as a place for exchange within the unit.

A student pilot is depicted there in a debriefing with two veterans, evoking exchanges and the sharing of experience. The uniforms on display, including that of a landing officer, bear witness to the importance of linking objects to personal stories. This room also highlights trophies, including a parachute and a piece of a Super Frelon blade, recalling a tragic incident that occurred during a flight between Saint-Raphaël and La Corse.

The Technique et Historique room retraces the evolution of aviation techniques, developed to adapt to the marine world. A presentation of landing and catapulting techniques, navigation systems, and armements illustrates the many innovations necessary to increase operational capabilities.

Other themes cover balloons and airships, illustrating a little-known aspect of naval aviation until 1937, as well as vessels such as the submarine Surcouf, capable of operating a seaplane, and the first true French aircraft carrier, the Béarn.

And, the Machines des Hommes room retraces the evolution of flight equipment, with historical helmets and memorabilia from pilots or technicians who had remarkable careers. It also features many scale models retracing the evolution of aircraft since 1910 and showing the evolution of the aerial assets of the carrier air group, helicopters, and the maritime patrol.

Finally, the outdoor area has been set up to host a static exhibition of helicopters, including a WG13 Lynx and an Alouette 3. The transformed tennis court allows visitors to discover these iconic machines, and a Super-Étendard will soon complete this exhibition.

In short, the Espace de Tradition de l'Aéronautique Navale de Hyères offers a unique immersion into the history and evolution of naval aviation, combining tradition, innovation, and memory. A place for all military history and aviation enthusiasts, dedicated to collecting physical, oral, or photographic items to preserve this memory and transmit it to younger generations.

Laurette PARAY - Photo: Yves BOYER.