English Electric P1 B "Lightning" - British fighter

English Elektric P1 B "Lightning" - British fighter-interceptor, developed in the mid-1950s. It was produced in more than 14 modifications. By many parameters it is one of the most unusual and unique aircraft in the history of the British aircraft industry. The first mass-produced military aircraft, capable of supersonic cruising without the use of forsage. The last single-seat supersonic fighter, to be built and operated in the United Kingdom. The main advantage of the fighter was high speed (in UK conditions, where the response time is minimal, speed is the most important parameter). Its main disadvantage was difficult maintenance. The plane had a rather large "appetite" for fuel - so it was often equipped with unique additional fuel tanks above the wing. In addition to the guns, the aircraft could carry two Hawker Siddeley "Red Top" air-to-air missiles. In 1962 the F.3 modification appeared with more powerful "Avon" 301R engines and a larger keel. In 1965 the F.6 model was put into operation. Its main difference was an enlarged lower fuel tank, into which the armament was moved from the front, new wing trailing edges with a lower sweep angle. Airplanes of this model were also able to attach over-wing additional fuel tanks. Despite operational difficulties, it served in the Royal Air Force for three decades (from 1959 to 1988). The last fighter was decommissioned in June 1988 and sold to private individuals. The aircraft was exported to Saudi Arabia (primary foreign user, 1967-1986) and Kuwait (12 aircraft, 1968-1977). Until 2012, "Lightning" aircraft participated in the South African company's "Thunder City" air show. There are three aircraft in  flying condition in the UK; however, the UK Civil Aviation Authority has banned private flights of these fighters for a number of reasons.

A large, yet simple, manual design model for modelers of all experience. The detailing is quite excellent for those times, detailed (minimal) cabin interior, chassis, missile armament. Antiquarian publication