79 Squadron

Built by Vickers Armstrong in the mid-1950s, WK281 joined 79 Sqdn at RAF Gutersloh in 1959 and was operated in the tactical fighter reconnaissance role until 1961 when the squadron converted to the Hunter FR.10. After brief storage at Church Fenton the airframe was used by an ATC squadron in Uxbridge. From 1967, WK281 was placed on display at several different RAF stations before being moved to the RAF Museum at Hendon in 1989 and subsequently loaned to Tangmere in 1994. Of the 193 production Swifts manufactured, just four complete examples remain.

Originally constructed as an F.4 in May 1955, 277 was subsequently converted to a fighter reconnaissance FR.5 variant, later serving with 2 Sqn of the RAF. A beautifully preserved airframe in the Newark Air Museum.

One of the few surviving examples of the Swift, preserved at the Newark Air Museum. Here it is seen before being externally restored. The markings are those of No. 2 Squadron, RAF.

This Supermatine Swift FR.5 wears its old 79 Squadron markings when on display at the RAF 50th Anniversary show at RAF Abingdon. Later transferred to the RAF Museum.

picture salvaged from a discoloured copy slide.

Looking in excellent condition, this aircraft is part of the Newark air Museum and is in the new National Lottery funded hangar.t

Swift F.4 WK275 displayed long term outside Sheppards commercial premises in the remote country village of Upper Hill. Previously operated as 'N' of 2 Squadron RAF.

The second production Swift F.1 visiting Blackbushe during the Farnborough Airshow week. Later served the AAEE at Boscombe Down and RAE Thurleigh near Bedford. Retired from service on 25 April 1961.

Swift FR.5 landing at the SBAC show after a demonstration flight given by a V-A test pilot. Later to A&AEE Boscombe Down for handling trials and served 79 Squadron operationally. Written off at RAF Benson 22 October 1958.