XM605 entered service with the RAF at the end of 1963 with 9 Sqdn, going on to serve with the Coningsby, Cottesmore and Waddington Wings before progressing to 101 Sqdn in 1973 and then finally 50 Sqdn in 1979. Vulcans regularly visited the USA as part of the NATO nuclear deterrent on lone ranger missions, bombing competitions and squadron deployments. XM605 was one such and when selected for preservation upon retirement was flown to Castle AFB in September 1981 for the Castle Air Museum. The following year the RAF borrowed its refuelling probe for use in the Falklands campaign

The 1 Group panthers head badge has been applied on the fin along with the Union Flag. Replicating the markings applied to Vulcan aircraft that were sent to the USA to compete in the 'Giant Voice' SAC Navigation and Bombing competitions. XM605 departed Waddington a few days after the photo was taken (September 2nd 1981) to be presented to the USAF at Castle AFB, Ca for their museum.

Delivered in 1963. To Castle AFB, CA for preservation in 1981.

Arrived at the museum in 1981.

Epic sight at the Finningley Royal Review in 1977. This 101 Sqdn example is now slowly deteriorating in the Californian sun at the Castle Air Museum. The other three Vulcans are XH558 of 27 Sqdn, XL446 of 35 Sqdn & XL426 of 617 Sqdn (but don't ask which is which!)

Vulcan from the Waddington Wing wearing the markings of No. 101 Squadron and the base markings at tip of fin. Displayed at the Jubilee air show at RAF Finningley.

Vulcan B.2 of 101 Squadron based at RAF Waddington exhibited at the Queen's Silver Jubilee Review at RAF Finningley.