Revell Handley Page Halifax B Mk.III "Friday The 13th" LV907 (1:72)

Handley Page Halifax B Mk.III  Model makers have waited a long time, now the moment has come: For the first time since 2015, Revell is releasing the Handley Page Halifax B Mk.III. This kit is considered to be the only modern tool of this famous British bomber on the current market. With an impressive wingspan of almost 44 cm in a scale of 1:72, this model is a real heavyweight. It offers a level of detail and fit that befits the historical significance of this Royal Air Force workhorse. Along with the famous Lancaster, the Handley Page Halifax was the Royal Air Force's most important heavy bomber in World War II. Over 6,000 examples were built. The Mk.III version featured the more powerful Bristol Hercules radial engines, giving it better performance and higher chances of survival. It was the backbone of Bomber Command and made a decisive contribution to the Allied air offensive. The kit contains two new, high-quality decal versions for a British (RAF) and an Australian (RAAF) aircraft. The RAF Example is LV907 "Friday The 13th" as "Preserved" at the Yorkshire Air Museum at Elvington! With 257 parts and level 5, this bomber is a wonderful challenge for experienced modelers aged 13 and over. - 1:72 Scale

Italeri OA-4M Skyhawk (1:72)

OA-4M Skyhawk The Douglas A-4 Skyhawk was developed in the 1950s and became one of the most famous and widely used light attack aircraft in the history of aviation. It was characterized by a simple design, with low-mounted delta wings and small side air intakes, yet it was extremely functional for operational use. Derived as an evolution of the original layout, the OA-4M Skyhawk is a two-seat light attack and advanced training version designed to meet the operational needs of the United States Marine Corps. Developed by McDonnell Douglas in the 1970s, the OA-4M was created to operate alongside single-seat variants in tactical support, reconnaissance, and pilot operational training missions. Significantly upgraded in avionics compared to previous versions, the OA-4M was capable of employing a broader and more advanced variety of weapon systems. - 1:72 Scale

Italeri Messerschmitt Me 323 Gigant (1:72)

Messerschmitt Me 323 Gigant  The Me-323 “Gigant” was one of the largest transport aircraft built during the Second World War. It was developed to meet the specific requirement of the Luftwaffe, following the extension of supply lines, to transport troops and materials over long distances. Initially developed from a glider, it was equipped with six radial engines mounted on the wing leading edge, capable of providing sufficient power for fully loaded flight operations. The enormous fuselage was able to carry troops—more than 120 men—supplies, artillery pieces, and light vehicles. Its great transport capacity compromised its maximum speed, which only slightly exceeded 240 km/h. It was employed on the North African and Tunisian fronts to supply the Afrika Korps from bases in Sicily, as well as on the Russian front. It is considered a milestone in transport aircraft history. - 1:72 Scale

Airfix Westland Sea King HC 4 (1:72)

Westland Sea King HC 4 This detailed 1:72 scale replica of the Westland Sea King HC.4 'Commando' includes 133 plastic components, providing an engaging project for intermediate modellers. Tailored for amphibious missions and tactical troop deployment, this variant omits the side floats of earlier Sea King models, making it perfect for land operations while maintaining folding rotors and tail for naval use. Key Features: 1:72 scale model with 133 plastic parts Skill level 2 - suitable for modellers aged 8 and above Two authentic paint schemes included Folding rotors and tail mechanism can be modelled Detailed cockpit and troop compartment interior Option to display radar-warning and infrared jamming devices Decals for Falklands, Gulf and Afghanistan operational service History: The 'Commando' variant of the Sea King was specifically designed for amphibious warfare and tactical troop deployment. Initially suggested as a tactical transport for the Egyptian Air Force, it did not require the amphibious features of previous Sea Kings, leading to the removal of side floats. Featuring folding rotors and tail, the Commando was introduced into the Royal Navy as the Sea King HC.4. It was later equipped with radar-warning and infrared jamming systems and could release M130/M147 flares as countermeasures. In addition to transporting troops, it could carry underslung loads up to 2.5 tonnes. With an extended range and capacity to carry 28 troops, it was perfect for amphibious transport duties. The HC.4 was actively used in conflicts in the Falklands, Balkans, Gulf, Lebanon, and Afghanistan. It frequently undertook missions to evacuate injured personnel and refugees, as well as supporting and preparing for ground operations. It was scheduled for retirement from UK Forces service in March 2016. The Westland Sea King is a product of Leonardo UK Ltd and all rights in it, including its name, are hereby reserved. The models have been produced with the permission and assistance of Leonardo MW Ltd.

Airfix Twin pack Typhoon FGR.4 (FMOG) & Hawker Typhoon (1:72)

Twin pack Typhoon FGR.4 (FMOG) & Hawker Typhoon (1:72) Product Info: This remarkable dual set combines two legendary RAF aircraft models in 1:72 scale, featuring the contemporary Eurofighter Typhoon FGR.4 'Moggy' alongside the historic Hawker Typhoon Mk.Ib that inspired its eye-catching D-Day tribute design. Comprising 117 parts and rated at skill level 2, this dual set is ideal for modellers aged 8 and older, enabling you to recreate both the original 1944 camouflage of No.257 (Burma) Squadron and the stunning 2024 homage on the RAF Display Team's aircraft. Key Features: -Twin pack includes both Eurofighter Typhoon FGR.4 'Moggy' and Hawker Typhoon Mk.Ib in 1:72 scale -117 pieces with skill level 2 build, perfect for modellers aged 8 years and above -Authentic schemes celebrating the 80th anniversary of D-Day -Eurofighter Typhoon features distinctive black and white D-Day identification markings -Wingspan of 153mm on completed Eurofighter model -Recreate the historic 1944 No.257 (Burma) Squadron camouflage scheme -Decals for ZJ913, the RAF Typhoon Display Team aircraft from the 2024 season History: As the nation prepared for the 80th anniversary of D-Day in summer 2024, aviation fans across Britain frequently checked the Royal Air Force Typhoon Display Team's social media for any exciting updates. Indeed, on a rainy Monday in May, the doors of a hardened aircraft shelter (HAS) at RAF Coningsby opened to unveil a stunning Eurofighter Typhoon adorned in 1944 camouflage and identification markings. The striking design on Typhoon FGR.4 ZJ913 was inspired by the RAF No.257 (Burma) Squadron Hawker Typhoon Mk.Ib, piloted by Officer Denzil Jenkins during the D-Day landings on 6th June 1944, featuring the iconic black and white identification stripes that were a hallmark of Allied aircraft over Normandy on D-Day. This was a brilliant move by the RAF PR team, and this aircraft captivated millions during the subsequent airshow season, at commemorative events in both the UK and France, and during a successful Canadian tour. Fans quickly gave this unique aircraft a nickname, and from that initial day at Coningsby, she was known as 'Moggy', a clever nod to the squadron codes she bore, using the roundel as an O. Unfortunately, this appealing aircraft only served as the RAF display Typhoon for one season, but it will be fondly remembered as one of the most beloved RAF aircraft of the post-war period. 'Moggy' can now be a standout piece on your workbench, alongside the aircraft that inspired her design, with both model kits beautifully capturing this extraordinary link between past and present. BAE SYSTEMS is a registered trade mark of BAE Systems plc.

Airfix Twin pack Typhoon FGR.4 (Blackjack) & Tucano T.1 (1:72)

Twin pack Typhoon FGR.4 (Blackjack) & Tucano T.1 (Linton)(1:72) Product Info: This 1:72 scale twin pack features two of the RAF's most iconic display aircraft: the Eurofighter Typhoon FGR.4 'Blackjack' and the Shorts Tucano T.1. Both models showcase bold all-black Aggressor designs with union flag inspired markings and RAF roundels on their tails. Comprising 91 pieces across both kits and rated at skill level 2, this set is perfect for modellers looking to enhance their skills. Key Features: -Twin pack including both Typhoon FGR.4 'Blackjack' and Shorts Tucano T.1 display aircraft -Both aircraft sport unique black schemes with red, white, and blue accents -91 pieces in total across both models -Skill level 2 - suitable for advancing modellers -1:72 scale models appropriate for ages 8 and up -Includes two genuine RAF display aircraft schemes History: Among the specially decorated RAF Typhoon FGR.4 display aircraft over the last decade, ZJ914 was the most enduring on the UK airshow scene and the most patriotic in design. Dressed in a sleek all-black Aggressor scheme, it also featured union flag inspired markings and an RAF roundel on each side of its tail. Regardless of the weather, when this aircraft performed with afterburners lit, it was a spectacle to witness. This scheme was reminiscent of the one used by the RAF Shorts Tucano T.1 display in 2008, which also had a black airframe with red, white, and blue accents to commemorate the 90th anniversary of the Royal Air Force. Two Tucanos were adorned in this style: ZF210 and ZE338, with one acting as a backup should the primary display aircraft be unavailable. The Tucano served as the RAF's basic training aircraft for three decades until its retirement in 2019. Continuing a now well-loved tradition, Typhoon ZJ914 was affectionately nicknamed 'Blackjack' by enthusiasts. The aircraft sported this admired scheme for three complete display seasons and even during the early months of preparation for the 2024 airshow season. Is it any surprise that 'Blackjack' became one of the most beloved aircraft to represent the Royal Air Force in the 21st century? 'Blackjack' and the aircraft that inspired its appearance are now both available to construct in 1:72 scale - an excellent project for modellers beginning to gain confidence in this hobby. BAE SYSTEMS is a registered trade mark of BAE Systems plc.

Airfix Handley Page Victor K.2/SR.2 (1:72)

Handley Page Victor K.2/SR.2 The Handley Page (HP) Victor was a jet-powered, strategic bomber which, alongside the other ‘V’ bombers, the Avro Vulcan and Vickers Valliant, formed an essential part of Britain’s nuclear deterrent during the early part of the Cold War. The Victor was designed to carry out long-range, low-altitude attacks, but was later relegated to an aerial refuelling role when it was no longer deemed effective as a strategic bomber.  Subject to RAF’s requirements for greater tactical manoeuvrability and a higher ceiling, the B.2 variant with more powerful Rolls Royce Conway engines was developed in 1959. Thirty-four were produced and several were later converted for reconnaissance and aerial refuelling purposes. Two RAF squadrons formed on the B.2 after it entered service in 1962, but it was soon succeeded by the B.2R, a conversion which allowed them to carry ‘Blue Steel’ nuclear missiles in addition to free-fall nuclear payloads. Following the introduction of submarine-launched Polaris missiles in 1969, the Victor was gradually relieved of its role as a nuclear deterrent. This Kit Includes the Gulf War Desert Scheme 'Lusty Lindy', The Real 'Lusty Lindy' is Preserved locally at the Elvington Air Museum! - Plastic Kit Requires Glue & Paint to Complete - 257 Pieces - 2 Scheme Options - Skill Level 3 - 508mm Wingspan - 1:72 Scale

Airfix Hunting Percival Jet Provost T 3 T4 (1:72)

Hunting Percival Jet Provost T 3 T4 Includes: - Plastic kit - Cockpit details - Pilot included - Optional undercarriage (up or down positions) Waterslide transfers:   - A) Hunting Percival Jet Provost T.3A, Flt Lt Julie Ann Gibson, First Female RAF Pilot, No.1 Flying Training School, RAF Dishforth, May, 1990.    - B) Hunting Percival Jet Provost T.4, Royal Air Force College (RAFC) Cranwell, 1962. - Kit requires glue and paint to complete NOT included - 45 pieces - 1:72 Scale  Aircraft information: For most RAF pilots serving between 1960 and 1988, the Hunting Aircraft (BAC) Jet Provost is extremely familiar. Forming the backbone of RAF pilot training during this period, the Jet Provost was distinctive by its broad fuselage profile, which allowed for a relatively spacious side-by-side cockpit arrangement.

Airfix Armstrong Whitworth Whitley Mk.V (1:72)

Armstrong Whitworth Whitley Mk.V Includes: - Plastic kit - Cockpit and interior parts - Clear glazed parts - Optional undercarriage (modelled in up or down positions) - Engine and prop detailing - Poistioning side door with ladder - Turrets with clear glazing parts - Aerial details - Waterslide transfers/decals for the following 2x schemes:    - A) Armstrong Whitworth Whitley Mk.V, aircraft flown by Squadron Leader John Charles MacDonald, No. 102 Squadron, No. 4 Group, Yorkshire, England, March 1940.    - B) Armstrong Whitworth Whitley Mk.V, No. 10 Squadron, No. 4 Group (Bomber Command), Royal Air Force Leeming, Yorkshire, England, December 1941.  - Kit requires glue and paint to complete NOT included - 1:72 Scale Aircraft information: The Armstrong Whitworth Whitley saw action right from the first night of the Second World War when it dropped leaflets over Germany. It then took part in the first bombing raids over German and Italian territories, making the Whitley an integral part of the RAF's bombing offensive in the war.

Airfix Hawker Tempest Mk.V Post War (1:72)

Hawker Tempest Mk.V Post War Condition Aircraft information and history: An aircraft which has to be considered one of the finest aeroplanes of the Second World War, the Hawker Tempest V could trace its design lineage back to the Hurricane fighters which proved so decisive during the Battle of Britain only two years earlier, but would represent the absolute zenith of piston engined fighter design. Indeed, when accomplished designer Sydney Camm was looking to produce his '˜Super Hurricane'™ replacement for the aviation saviour of the Battle of Britain, the aircraft he surely had in mind was the Tempest V. As it was, the Tempest is often confused with its predecessor in Royal Air Force service, the Typhoon, even though the two are very different aeroplanes.  The original fighter replacement for the Hawker Hurricane was the Typhoon, an aircraft which attempted to combine the most powerful piston engine available at the time with a small, yet strong and heavily armed airframe. Although intended as an interceptor fighter, it became apparent during development that the new aircraft would not be able to fulfil this role, as the thickness of the wing was not conducive to high performance at high altitude. In fact, the Typhoon would endure quite a troubled development and service introduction, to the point where cancellation of the programme was seriously considered at one time. Nevertheless, the Typhoon would eventually go on to find its aviation niche as a hard-hitting ground attack aircraft and one which would come into its own during the time of the Allied invasion of Normandy.  Aware that their Typhoon had great potential but was in need of improvement, the Hawker design team started work on a new fighter project, one which incorporated many of the same philosophies as Typhoon, but also, several significant modifications. Indeed, the new aircraft was initially referred to as the Typhoon Mark II, but this was changed to Tempest as the prototype aircraft'™s first flight approached. Although this was still a big aeroplane for a single engined fighter, its airframe was light and it would be powered by the massively powerful 24 cylinder Napier Sabre engine, a powerplant which would give the new fighter spectacular performance. Making its first flight on 2nd September 1942, the new Hawker Tempest featured a newly designed laminar flow wing, which was much thinner than the wing used on its predecessor and allowed the new fighter to slip through the air at incredible speed.  At first glance, the Typhoon and Tempest do share many similarities, however, if you know where to look, it is not difficult to tell them apart. Without doubt, the wing is the most obvious distinguishing feature, as not only is this thinner than the one used on the Typhoon, it is also a completely different shape. With a straighter leading edge and more elliptical trailing edge, the Tempest'™s wing was designed for speed, even though it could still be used effectively in a ground attack role. Other Tempest design differences include a slightly longer nose and a tail section which appears to be much larger, with a more generous vertical stabiliser which features a pronounced dorsal fillet. During the prototype aircraft'™s maiden flight, it posted an impressive top speed of 477 mph in level flight, impressing both the design team and the watching Air Ministry.  The Hawker Tempest V entered Royal Air Force service in early 1944, with the first two squadrons to receive the type having both previously operated the Typhoon. It was thought that managing the incredible power generated by the Tempest'™s engine could pose problems for pilots converting from smaller aircraft types and that former Typhoon units would be best placed to negotiate its squadron introduction. In advance of the D-day landings, Tempests were being used in a similar ground attack role to the one being flown so effectively by Typhoon squadrons, however, should it be required to make the shift to air combat operations mid-mission, the Tempest was much more suited to this task. Possessing significantly greater range than the Typhoon, Tempests could loiter in the combat zone for longer periods, allowing offensive strikes deeper into occupied Europe, or allowing pilots to wait patiently for the Luftwaffe to come up and fight, where they could show them what their new fighter could really do.  As the fastest Allied fighter at low and medium altitudes, Tempest squadrons were held back for home defence duties in the weeks which followed the successful D-day landings, due to the onslaught of a sinister new weapon, the V-1 '˜Doodlebug'™ pulse jet flying bomb. The Tempest proved to be an excellent V-1 killer, using the speed of the fighter, effectiveness of its guns and bravery of its pilots to destroy large numbers of these terrifying weapons before they could wreak their havoc on British towns and cities. Britain'™s most effective force against these indiscriminate weapons, hundreds of Doodlebugs were shot down by the RAF'™s Hawker Tempest V squadrons, with Squadron Leader Joseph Berry proving to be the most proficient at this work, with no fewer than 61 V-1 '˜kills'™ to his name.  With the V-1 threat diminishing, the RAF'™s Tempest V squadrons were free to embark on aggressive seek and destroy missions into occupied Europe, using the speed, range and firepower of their latest fighter to great effect. Looking for potential V-1 launch sites and increasingly, the new German jet fighters which had started operating against the Allied air forces, the Tempest began to show that it was undoubtedly one of the most capable fighting aeroplanes in the world. Indeed, it has been reported that the aggressively flown Tempest was the Allied aircraft Messerschmitt Me262 jet pilots most feared during those early days of jet powered operations, particularly if they were caught during the landing and taking off phases of flight, when their jets were much more vulnerable.  There is no doubt that the Hawker Tempest V was a real brute of an aeroplane, fast, heavily armed and possessing performance which could better any fighter the Luftwaffe had in service, perhaps with the exception of the Me262 at full speed. Pilots who had experience flying both the Tempest V and its predecessor, the Typhoon, describe the difference as being like night and day - they actually said that it was like comparing a cart horse with a race horse. Although this seems a little harsh, as they flew the aircraft in combat, we should certainly bow to their judgement. Although appearing relatively late in WWII, the Tempest V still takes its place as one of the most effective piston engined fighters of the Second World War and was perhaps the '˜Super Hurricane'™ designer Sydney Camm had always envisaged developing. Includes: - Plastic kit - Cockpit detail - Optional undercarriage (up or down positions) - Wing and body detailing - 4x bladed prop - 2x sets of waterslide transfers/decals  - Scheme A: Hawker Tempest Mk.V Post War, Aircraft flown by Leader H 'Poppa' Ambrose DFC, Commanding Officer No.26 Squadron, Royal Air Force Gatow, Germany , 1946.  - Scheme B: Hawker Tempest Mk.V Post War, No.80 Squadron, Royal Airforce Wunstorf (formerly Advanced Landing Ground B-11) Germany, 1946. - Kit requires glue and paint to complete (NOT included) - 1:72 Scale.

Airfix Junkers Ju-87 B-1 Stuka (1:72)

Junkers Ju-87 B-1 Stuka Although usually associated with the Wehrmachts feared Lightning War attacks at the beginning of WWII, the Ju87B Stuka was also a highly effective maritime strike bomber. Capable of performing precision dive bombing attacks against any Allied vessel, the Stuka took a heavy toll of shipping in the English Channel, North Africa and in the Mediterranean. The Stuka also saw service with the air forces of Italy, Romania, Bulgaria and Hungary, as well as remaining in Luftwaffe service throughout WWII. The attack dive of the Stuka was so severe, that quite a number of automatic features had to be incorporated into the manoeuvre. At an altitude of approximately 15,000 ft., the pilot would locate his target through a bombsight window, which was located in the floor of the cockpit. His engine and propeller had automatic controls, to optimise the aircraft when in a dive, and an automatic trimmer would make the aircraft tail heavy, as the pilot initiated the dive. He would move the dive lever to the rear, which would limit the kick of the control column and quickly begin a defined sequence of actions, which if done correctly, would see his ordnance detonate on his intended target. He quickly set the trim tabs, reduced the throttle and closed the engine coolant flaps. The aircraft would automatically become tail heavy and pitch over in a 180-degree roll, placing the aircraft in a steep nose-down dive at the same time, dive breaks were automatically deployed, to reduce the speed of the dive, to a constant 360 mph. This was the point of no return as the attack sequence had begun. As the strain on the body of the pilot increased, he still had much work to do. The angle of his dive could be checked by looking at a series of red lines on the side of his cockpit window and lining them up against the horizon 60, 75, or 80 degree angle of attack. He would then look forward through the fixed gun sight, to line up his attack, before releasing his heavy main bomb - the optimum release height was indicated to the pilot, by a light flicking on in his altimeter. The bomb was carried on a large U-shaped cradle, which would swing down on release, throwing the bomb safely clear of the large propeller and on to the target. As all this action was taking place, the pilot would have certainly had at least a couple of reassuring glances at the red pins protruding up from the top of the wings, which informed him that the automatic dive recovery system was engaged, should he fall victim to a g-induced black-out. All this would have been taking place in just a matter of a few, frantic seconds! Once the bombs had left the aircraft, it automatically began its dive recovery sequence. This was the point at which the maximum g loading on the crew would be felt and forces in excess of six times the force of gravity were regularly experienced, which could result in vision impairment at the very least. Once recovered and the nose of the aircraft was above the horizon, the dive breaks were automatically retracted, the throttle was opened and the propeller was set to climb the pilot then quickly had to manually open the coolant flaps, to prevent the engine from overheating and then resume flying the aircraft. This was the point that the Stuka was at its most vulnerable, flying at low level, at relatively slow speed and in hostile territory. His rear gunner may still be blacked out and indeed the pilot might still be feeling a little light headed, but every anti-aircraft gun, rifle and enemy fighter in the vicinity would be taking pot-shots at them, from every angle. Includes: - Plastic kit - Cockpit detail including pilot - Undercarriage detailing - Bomb and armament detail - 2x sets of waterslide transfers/decals:  - Scheme A - Junkers Ju 87B-1 Stuka VK+ER, II./Sturzkampfgeschwader 77, Breslau-Schöngarten, Germany (now Poland), Spring 1939  - Scheme B - Junkers Ju 87B-1 T6+IH, I./Sturzkampfgeschwader 2 ‘Immelmann’, Balkans, 1940/41. - Kit requires glue and paint to complete (NOT included)  - 1:72 scale 

Italeri Short Sunderland Mk.III (1:72)

Short Sunderland Mk.III The Short Sunderland was one of the most famous seaplanes of World War II. It’s came into service at the end of 1938 to equip the Royal Air Force squadrons of Coastal Command. The Sunderland Mark III, introduced on the end of 1941,  turned out to be the definitive Sunderland variant, with a huge number of units built. The Mk. III can be considered one of the most effective and successful weapons to counter the German U-Boots threat during the Battle of Atlantic. The flying boat patrol bomber Sunderland Mk III has been decisively improved, compared to the previous versions, with a revised hull configuration and the adoption of new patrol and submarines search equipment. Even the offensive load, which could included bombs, mines and depth charges, has been increased .The reliable 1,065 Hp Bristol Pegasus radial engines guaranteed a top speed of 336 Km/h and a range, essential feature to perform successfully sea patrol and research duties, of 2,800 Km.  - Plastic Kit Requires Glue & Paint to Complete - 1:72 Scale 

Airfix Avro Vulcan B.2 (1:72)

Avro Vulcan B.2 Includes: - Highly detailed plastic kit - Cockpit detailing - Cockpit flap and access ladder - Optional undercarriage (Up or down positions) - Body panel and rivet detailing - Wing flaps can be positioned up or down - Bomb bay doors can be modelled open or closed - Full armament  - Waterslide transfers/decals for the following:   - (A) Scheme option B - Avro Vulcan B.Mk.2 XM602, RAF No.12 Squadron As the massive construction hangar doors at Avro’s Woodford factory aerodrome were pushed open on 30th August 1952 and Avro Vulcan prototype VX770 was wheeled out onto the hardstanding, she must have made for an awe-inspiring sight. Looking absolutely resplendent in its all-over white ‘Anti-Flash’ paint finish and proudly wearing its Royal Air Force insignia, what the Avro engineers had managed to produce was not only the world’s first delta bomber, but also the most advanced bomber in the world at that time.- Kit requires glue and paint to complete NOT included    - (B) Scheme option B - Avro Vulcan B.Mk.2 XM602, RAF No.12 Squadron As the massive construction hangar doors at Avro’s Woodford factory aerodrome were pushed open on 30th August 1952 and Avro Vulcan prototype VX770 was wheeled out onto the hardstanding, she must have made for an awe-inspiring sight. Looking absolutely resplendent in its all-over white ‘Anti-Flash’ paint finish and proudly wearing its Royal Air Force insignia, what the Avro engineers had managed to produce was not only the world’s first delta bomber, but also the most advanced bomber in the world at that time. - Kit requires glue and paint to complete NOT included - 1:72 Scale  Aircraft information and history: Occupying a significant position in the history of post war British aviation, the Avro Vulcan was without doubt one of the most distinctive aircraft ever to take to the skies, with its huge delta wing profile becoming almost as iconic as the elliptical wing of the Supermarine Spitfire. Built to satisfy an extremely demanding Air Ministry requirement for a fast, high altitude strategic bomber, capable of carrying a special payload of 10,000 imperial pounds in weight (a nuclear device), the new aircraft was intended to serve as an airborne deterrent to any future military threat against the UK, with the required specifications representing a 100% increase in the capabilities of any previous British bomber aircraft. When the Vulcan made its maiden flight in August 1952, the Avro team were well on the way to presenting the Royal Air Force with not only the worlds first delta bomber, but also one of the worlds most effective strike bombers. Interestingly, all this was achieved just nine years since the Avro Lancasters of RAF No.617 Squadron had launched their famous raid against the great dams of the Ruhr Valley. As the Avro Vulcan entered squadron service with No.83 Squadron at RAF Waddington in July 1957, Britain now possessed the fastest nuclear capable bomber in the world. It seems strange to describe an aircraft which possessed such potential for untold destruction as Britain's most effective peace keeping asset, however, that is exactly what the Vulcan turned out to be. Throughout the aggressive posturing of the Cold War, the Warsaw Pact nations were in no doubt that if they dared to launch an attack against a NATO member country, the consequences of the inevitable retaliatory strike would be catastrophic. Without Doubt, during the early years of its service career, nothing represented this doomsday scenario more effectively than the mighty Avro Vulcan. As the Royal Air Force exhaustively trained their new Vulcan crews to provide Britain with an effective Quick Reaction Alert strike force, Avro engineers were already working to improve the capabilities of their original, iconic design. In order to ensure the aircraft continued to maintain its effective deterrent threat and stayed one step ahead of advances in Easter Bloc fighter and surface-to-air missile technology, designers incorporated developments which endowed the aircraft with greater range, speed and altitude performance. The installation of more powerful versions of the Vulcans Bristol Olympus engines would result in a number of unforeseen stability issues with these first bombers, which concerned designers enough to necessitate a re-design of the original wing shape. By the time the definitive B.2 variant of the Vulcan entered service, the aircrafts wing area had increased significantly and although still classed as a delta, would look quite different from the first bombers which entered service. To cope with the increased power availability from subsequent engine upgrades and to cure the instability issues of the original straight wing design, the B.2 wing had two defined kinks in its leading edge, well forward of the profile of the original wing design. Rather than detract from the pleasing aesthetics of the early Vulcans delta wing, the B.2 actually enhanced the profile of the aircraft and even though these changes were obviously made for reasons of operational effectiveness, as opposed to appearance, the B.2 would go on to be considered the most famous (and most numerous) of all the RAFs Vulcans. The service introduction of the Vulcan B.2 in July 1960 coincided with the availability of more capable nuclear weapons for the V-bomber force, both in number and destructive potential. It would also bring about a change in thinking regarding the delivery of such weapons, as significant advances in Soviet anti-aircraft technology now threatened the success of a free-fall gravity bomb mission. A significant new weapon would have to be developed in order to maintain the deterrent threat of the Vulcan and its V-bomber partners. Developed to maintain the validity of Britain's nuclear deterrent threat, designers at Avro produced the powerful Blue Steel air-launched, nuclear stand-off missile, which would allow V-bomber crews to launch their attacks 100 miles away from their intended target and out of the range of Soviet surface-to-air missile batteries, allowing crews valuable additional time to avoid the resultant blast. Further boosting the effectiveness of the V-bomber force, the arrival of Blue Steel raised the nuclear stakes in Britains favour once more and would have caused much consternation amongst the Warsaw Pact nations. The responsibility of providing Britain's strategic nuclear deterrent passed to the submarines of the Royal Navy in July 1969 and saw the RAF performing its final V-bomber Blue Steel mission late the following year. Although taking on a more conventional strike role, RAF Vulcans would retain a nuclear capability and maintain their position as one of the worlds most effective bombers for the next fourteen years, before finally being withdrawn from service. Due to the affection in which this aircraft was held by the British public, the Vulcan Display Flight was almost immediately formed to operate one aircraft on the UK Airshow circuit for a further nine years, before itself being disbanded. To the amazement of the historic aviation world, the last flying Avro Vulcan, XH558, the aircraft which had previously served as the Vulcan Display Flight aircraft, triumphantly returned to the air once more, this time in the hands of a civilian organisation in October 2007. Over the course of the next eight years, the Vulcan thrilled millions of people around the country, becoming something of an aviation national treasure a relic of the Cold War which was held in great public affection.