In the late 1940s the RAF faced the same crisis of interception as their colleagues in the USAF. The Soviet Union had the bomb and would soon be able to mount it on jet bombers that flew faster and higher than piston engined all weather fighters. Even the Mosquito was outclassed.
The RAF had designed on a sophisticated delta-winged supersonic interceptor. But this project was significantly delayed due to its complexity. They needed a stand in. They turned to Armstrong Whitworth to provide it.
Although you see them occasionally at airshows, Meteor night fighters are rarely spoken about today. In this video I'd like to elevate their role in the defence of the UK and NATO by deep diving into some of their interesting features. Comparing them to their US equivalent - the F-94 Starfire is an interesting case in early Cold War. interceptor design.
In doing this I'll also tell the faintly comic story of the type's only kill, one moonlit night over the Mediterranean in October 1956.
I hope you find it interesting. My intention was always to showcase interesting aircraft variants from all nations. Hopefully I've done the Meteor Night Fighters justice. Comments, likes and subscriptions always greatly appreciated!
Sources:
The basic framework of information on the NF11 - 14 came from the excellent 'Gloster Meteor' by Phil Butler and Tony Buttler
Inspiration for the story of the IL-14 shoot down came from the outstanding 'Arab MiGs - Volume 1 - MiG-15s and MiG-17s...' by Tom Cooper and David Nicolle
More information and an overview of the type can be found here: www.key.aero/a...
5 окт 2024
