- Yes
- No
- Grouped after F.6
- Grouped before F.6
- Un-grouped after F.6
- Un-grouped before F.6
- Somewhere Else
- No
Presenting to you the English Electric Lightning F.2 - “Frightening”
Historical Background
The English Electric Lightning F.2 was the third production variant of the iconic Lightning series, following the earlier F.1 and F.1A models. Introduced into RAF service in late 1961, the F.2 was a step forward in the evolution of the Lightning, reflecting advancements in technology and a further understanding of the requirements for a modern interceptor during the Cold War.
The Lightning F.2 was the first variant equipped with a CRT (Cathode Ray Tube) attack display, which provided pilots with a more advanced and user-friendly interface for targeting and navigation. The variant also featured an upgraded radar system, offering better detection and tracking of enemy aircraft. The cockpit and instrumentation were refined, and the F.2 introduced a liquid oxygen breathing system, which allowed pilots to operate at higher altitudes more effectively & easily.
A total of 44 Lightning F.2s were built from 1960–1963, with the aircraft produced at the Samlesbury facility and assembled at Warton. It was at Warton that these aircraft made their maiden flights, marking the beginning of their service in the Royal Air Force until 1988 where the final F.2 variant was retired.
Once in service, the Lightning F.2 was stationed at key RAF bases, including RAF Leuchars and RAF Wattisham, where it played a vital role in the air defense of the United Kingdom during the height of the Cold War. Although it was eventually succeeded by more recent variants like the F.3 and F.6, the F.2 remains a significant milestone in the history of British military aviation, symbolizing the relentless pursuit of technological superiority.
Following the F.2’s development, the Lightning was adapted for export, leading to the development of the F.52 variant. Primarily sold to Saudi Arabia, it retained the core features of the F.2, including the CRT attack display and upgraded radar, with modifications to suit the Royal Saudi Air Force’s needs. The F.52 significantly bolstered Saudi Arabia’s air defense capabilities in the 1960s, providing a high-performance interceptor tailored for the Middle Eastern environment.
Specifications
Crew:
1 (Pilot)
Powerplant:
2 × 14,430 lb (reheat) Rolls-Royce Avon 210R
Dimensions
Length:
16.85 meters (55 feet 3 inches)
Height:
5.97 meters (19 feet 7 inches)
Span:
10.67 meters (34 feet 10 inches)
Wing Area:
45.1 square meters (458.5 square feet)
*some sources show 485.5 sq feet but im not sure which is correct.
Weight
Empty:
27,000 pounds (12,247 kilograms)
Gross:
34,500 pounds (15,652 kilograms)
Performance
Max Speed:
Varies slightly with Mark and load; approx. 1,500 mph (Mach 2.27 at 40,000 ft)
Climb Rate:
25,000 feet per minute (7,620 meters per minute)
Ceiling:
60,000 feet + (18,300 meters +)
Range:
800 miles
Armament
- 2 × 30 mm ADEN cannons
- 2 × de Havilland Firestreak air-to-air missiles
Sources
AIRFIGHTERS.COM - English Electric Lightning F2
English Electric (BAC) Lightning
Thunder & Lightnings - English Electric Lightning - History
https://www.baesystems.com/en-uk/heritage/english-electric-lightning
F.2 - Lightning Association
English Electric Lightning - Wikipedia
Sources below used from wayback machine
https://www.eelightningsig.uk/variants.html
Thank you for taking the time to vote and read my suggestion, it took a decent amount of time researching and compiling this.