Hi all,
This is a bit off-center.
For the Oct. 1953 London to Christchurch race, the RAF considered entering a Valiant or 2.
From Valiant History page.
” Vickers made some modifications to the Valiant including long range fuel tanks under the wings with the hope of entering the New Zealand air race in October. However the Air Ministry vetoed this and the English Electric’s Canberra was left to win the race instead.”
I am looking for the production serial numbers of Valiants built before Oct. 1953 to determine which plane(s) they might have been.
Any help would be very appreciated.
Don
By: airtanker - 26th April 2004 at 05:40
Vickers Valiant Air Racer
Trying to attach a scan fron the London to Chrustchurch Race Programme.
Don
By: Papa Lima - 25th April 2004 at 23:36
Quick response
Thanks, Steve and airtanker, I’ve had years of practice as a technical author which I think have also trained my memory, so when I think I know the answer it doesn’t take me long to find it!
By: airtanker - 25th April 2004 at 23:13
Vickers Valiant Air Racer
Papa Lima,
Thank you for the quick answer.
This forum is Tops.
Best regards,
Don
By: Arabella-Cox - 25th April 2004 at 23:11
Nine minutes from question to answer, on one of the most obscure subjects I’ve read on here for ages. The amount of knowledge on this forum never ceases to amaze me… 🙂
By: Papa Lima - 25th April 2004 at 23:04
Just one Valiant, the second prototype WB215 was entered for the race. Long range 1645 Imerial gallon fuel tanks were fitted under each wing and uprated Avons awere installed, along with some navigational equipment changes. This resulted in this aircraft receiving a new Type number, Vickers 709. Mainly because Valiants had not had tropical trials, it was withdrawn by the Air Ministry.
Source: Modern Combat Aircraft 11, Robert Jackson
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April 25, 2004 at 10:55 pm