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.