Originally posted by simshell
ok just to let you know iv never seen that thing ever in my life could some one give me a brief info
Part of the 'V' Force (Vulcan, Victor & Valiant), it was designed as a strategic bomber. It was equipped with a nuclear missile and was considered as one of the best deep strike aircraft.
I watched a a programme on Discovery and they mentioned that before SAMs were introduced nothing could touch this aircraft. Its large wing made it out manouvre interceptor jets (could easily be rolled) at altitude and its jamming technology allowed it to penetrate US defences in mock battles without detection. The Soviet Union felt very threatened by both the Vulcan and the Victor. Sadly with the advent of SAMs it had to move to the low-level mission like many other bombers. It carried out the longest bomb run in military history when it bombed the Falkland Islands from the Ascension Islands during the Falklands War 1982. It could carry 21,000lbs of iron bombs. It was converted to a tanker in its later life.
None are currently flying although one is nearing completion for flight again. NASA was interested in purchasing this Vulcan because, despite its age, it still held advanced delta wing technology/construction.
Read
http://www.thunder-and-lightnings.co.uk/vulcan/history.html
Was just looking at the picture above, I don't know which disused airfield that is but the three dispersals look like former Thor nuclear missile launch pads!
