President Truman flying over flooded area. Note improper serial presentation on the presidential aircraft - the tail number should read 6505 according to the rules. Photo from: George Skadding / Life

There would be three Hunter prototypes build but the very first was WB188, the real prototype. It's first flight was on 20 July 1951 at Boscombe Down. Later this one would be rebuild as the Hunter Mk.3 which was used for some speed records. It survives in this form at the museum at Tangmere, Sussex. Ministry of supply photo, ref. no. 2130/C, crown copyright.

'Field measurements by SWF on the Feldberg,' the highest peak in the Black Forest. The early helicopter of Swedish operator Ostermans Aero is wearing SAS titles here but with 'Scandinavian' on a removed panel. Photo by: Willy Pragher / Staatsarchiv Freiburg

The second prototype of the DH.106 Comet during its first visit to Palmietfontein in July 1951, while on proving flights. Note the large single mainwheels and the square cabin windows.

Ex Royal Navy 778 Squadron MB407. Overhauled at Manchester Ringway by Fairey Aviation. After test flights, delivered by sea to the Thai Navy. On arrival, taken over by the Thai Air Force.

One of several ex Royal Navy Firefly FR.1's overhauled at Ringway by Fairey Aviation and supplied to the Thai Navy - note anchor marking. From Faireys 60 years ago.