Withdrawn from service by the RAF in the 80's, six English Electric Lightning's were purchased by a wealthy tax exile, from Binbrook squadrons Nos 5 and 11, all F-6s & T5's. They were flown into Cranfield by their pilots and regularly ground maintained by RAF personnel for some time. The poor! man's dream to fly them was thwarted by either the refusal of the CAA to issue the necessary licence, or the high maintenance costs, and the aircraft were eventually sold on.

Parked with XP764. XP753 was lost in an accident near Scarborough on 26 August 1983.

Just airborne and banking sharply right to begin its display. This Lightning and pilot were lost only a matter of days later, on 26 August, when the Lightning crashed into the sea near Scarborough.

Being prepared here for its display. Sadly this aircraft and its pilot were lost on 26 August 1983, when it crashed into the sea near Scarborough.

Operated by the Lightning Training Flight. Now preserved at Cranfield.

Sadly, this smart-looking Lightning and its pilot were lost on 26 August 1983, when it crashed into the sea near Scarborough.

This was a participant in the Elder Forest exercise.

Participating in the exercise Elder Forest

Temporarily based at Leeuwarden for the Elder Forest Exercise. The Lightnings performed the agressor role. Hence the 'red' star on the fin.

Cold War Jets open day