Years in Service: 1948-1984
Initial Flight: 1952
The Avro Vulcan is a jet-powered tailless delta wing high-altitude strategic bomber operated by the Royal Air Force. The Vulcan could carry conventional weapons and was used to full effect on Operation Black Buck, during the Falklands War between the United Kingdom and Argentina in 1982. For a time, it held the record for the longest bombing raid in history. (Eclipsed during Operation Desert Storm in 1991.) This was to be the only mission ‘flown in anger’ by an Avro Vulcan. Some Vulcans were converted for strategic reconnaissance and refueling tankers.
Aircraft Specifications
Height: 27′ 2″ Wingspan: 111′ Length: 99′ 9″ Crew: 5 Armament: “Blue Steel” Mk.1 standoff missile; AGM-45 “Shrike” anti-radar-air-to surface at underwing hardpoints Payload: 21,000-pound bomb load No. of Engines: 4 Thrust: 20,000 lbs. Cruise speed: 567 mph Max Speed: 646 mph Ceiling: 65,000 ft.