The BAe Lightning was the Royal Air Force's first supersonic Mach II fighter and the last fighter entirely of British design and manufacture.÷ The prototype first flew on April 4, 1957, the same day the Ministry of Defense released its infamous "White Paper" declaring manned fighter aircraft obsolete.÷ In spite of this dire prediction, development proceeded and the first Lightning Mk.1 entered service in 1960.÷ The Mk.1 was soon replaced by Mk.3 and Mk.6 versions with more powerful engines, increased range, improved avionics and heavier armament.



The Lightning incorporated a number of unique design features.÷ Its over and under engine installation allows for greater thrust provided by the (2) engines without the drag penalty of side-by-side placement.÷ Its unusual wing shape reduces drag while placing the ailerons in the best position for maneuverability.



The Museum's aircraft on display is a Lightning Mk.53, an export version of the Mk.6.÷ The Mk.53s first delivered in 1966, served as interceptors and ground attack aircraft.÷ This aircraft was manufactured in 1968. ÷ It bears the markings of No. 29 Fighter Squadron, Royal Air Force, one of ten RAF squadrons to operate the Lightning until 1988.÷ It was presented to the Museum in June 1990 by officials of British Aerospace (Military Aircraft) Ltd., Warton, Lancashire, England.