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English Electric Lightning F-1
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English Electric Lightning F-1
RAF Royal Airforce English Electric Lightning Taking-Off from Wattisham on a Media / Press Day Date: 1961
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Media ID 18406802
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1961 Er 103 Er103 F 23 49 F23 49 Interceptor Jet Powered Mach Mach 2 Mach2 Mid Wing Supersonic Twin Engined Wattisham
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In this black-and-white photograph, an English Electric Lightning F-1 fighter jet roars down the runway at Wattisham Airfield in England, preparing for takeoff during a media and press day in 1961. The Royal Air Force (RAF) base, located in Suffolk, was home to the first operational squadron of this groundbreaking supersonic interceptor, which was designed and manufactured by British Aircraft Corporation (BAC). The Lightning F-1, registration number XM147, is identified by its distinctive mid-wing configuration and twin engines. This powerful jet, capable of reaching speeds over Mach 2 (approximately 1,500 mph), was a symbol of British aviation innovation during the 1950s and 1960s. Its sleek design and advanced technology made it a formidable addition to the RAF's arsenal, providing air defense against potential threats. As the jet's powerful engines emit plumes of smoke and exhaust, the photographer skillfully captures the intensity and raw power of this remarkable machine. The image transports us back in time to an era when the future of military aviation was being written, and the English Electric Lightning F-1 was at the forefront of that revolution. The photograph's historical significance is further emphasized by the presence of the ER103 and F23 49 support vehicles, which can be seen in the background. These vehicles were essential for the maintenance and upkeep of the Lightning fleet, ensuring that these supersonic interceptors remained operational and ready for action. This image offers a unique glimpse into the past, providing a fascinating insight into the history of military aviation and the RAF's role in shaping the skies above.
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