The Bristol 188 was originally to test the Stainless Structural kinetic heating for the Avro730 albeit with a more conventional wing/tailplane configuration.

Note – Even if it had achieved full spec it was only good for 15mins at M2, just enough for thermal stabilisation. Top predicted speed was M2.8, but there was some optimism that M3+ was achievable due to flutter calculation conservatism. Best flight testing got to was M1.88 limited by air intake problems, although even if these had not been present high engine SFC limited it to M2 for only 7-8 mins. Engine designers at De Hav’s had all left and Bristols struggled to get any engine tech support. Nacelles were designed to accommodate other engine types (i.e. Oly) and in flight refueling was explored/schemes produced to extend even the gyron Junior thirsty performance, but by that stage the ministry had lost interest. Concorde was aluminum at M2.2.