Model of English Electric Lightning

A 1960s chrome plated cast brass model of a Lightning jet on original painted aluminium stand. This type of model was given to Lightning pilots upon their first completed flight in the aircraft.

Dimensions: 18.5 cm/7¼ inches (length) x 14.5 cm/5¾ inches (max. height) x 12.75 cm/5 inches (wing span).

The Lightning was the RAF's first supersonic aircraft, and is the only British designed and built plane capable of flying at speeds in excess of Mach 2 (twice the speed of sound). Amongst other things, it was renowned for its staggering rate of climb 'going vertical!' The power required to achieve this was provided by not one, but two Rolls-Royce Avon jet engines.

The aircraft was not built as a fighter, but as an interceptor. It was designed before the days of intercontinental missiles so its job was to gain height as rapidly as it could and destroy any incoming enemy aircraft armed with a nuclear bomb. Consequently, its low fuel capacity was not seen to be an issue, as the expected flight time was to be measured in minutes rather than hours.