Handley Page Victor K.2/SR.2

The Handley Page (HP) Victor was a jet-powered, strategic bomber which, alongside the other V bombers, the Avro Vulcan and Vickers Valliant, formed an essential part of Britains nuclear deterrent during the early part of the Cold War. The Victor was designed to carry out long-range, low-altitude attacks, but was later relegated to an aerial refuelling role when it was no longer deemed effective as a strategic bomber.

Subject to RAFs requirements for greater tactical manoeuvrability and a higher ceiling, the B.2 variant with more powerful Rolls Royce Conway engines was developed in 1959. Thirty-four were produced and several were later converted for reconnaissance and aerial refuelling purposes. Two RAF squadrons formed on the B.2 after it entered service in 1962, but it was soon succeeded by the B.2R, a conversion which allowed them to carry Blue Steel nuclear missiles in addition to free-fall nuclear payloads. Following the introduction of submarine-launched Polaris missiles in 1969, the Victor was gradually relieved of its role as a nuclear deterrent.

Length: 486 mm
Wingspan: 508 mm
Number of parts: 257

Schemes:

1) XL231 Lusty Lindy
2) XH669 - Black Buck Raids
3) 543 Squadron Lima Airport Peru 1971

As the last of Britain's trio of V-bombers to enter service, the Handley Page Victor was arguably the most successful, remaining in RAF service for an impressive 35 years. The final K.2 versions were converted to provide the RAF with an effective air-to-air refuelling aircraft, serving through both the Falklands Conflict and the Gulf War of 1990.