ZE164 had first flown at BAe Warton on 22 July 1986. It was delivered to the RAF on 18 September. Its flying career came to an end on 6 January 2011, when it suffered a bird strike but managed to land safely back at Leuchars. CAT 3 damage was caused to an intake and associated engine but was not repaired, as the type was being retired in March 2011.

The pilot of "Scimitar 21" taps his forehead three times with his hand to ensure his wingman (there are two F3s pictured) is aware that the brakes off signal is imminent. Pictured in the gloamin' about to depart for a night time sortie which would include a flypast over Edinburgh Castle at the Military Tattoo.

Poised and ready to be scrambled on another QRA mission!