Home > Mary Evans Prints Online > Aviation Images
English Electric Lightning P-1A
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Mary Evans Picture Library
English Electric Lightning P-1A
The First English Electric Lightning P-1A Prototype Date: 1954
Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries
Media ID 18406742
© aviation-images.com / Mary Evans Picture Library
1954 Electric Er 103 Er103 F 23 49 F23 49 Interceptor Jet Powered Lightning Mach Mach 2 Mach2 Mid Wing Prototype Supersonic Twin Engined Wg760
EDITORS COMMENTS
This photograph showcases the historic moment when the English Electric Lightning P-1A prototype, registration WG760, took to the skies for the first time on March 4, 1954. The Lightning, a mid-wing, twin-engined, supersonic jet-powered fighter interceptor, was a groundbreaking design for its time, reaching speeds of Mach 2 (approximately 1,500 mph) and revolutionizing air combat capabilities. Designed by the British Aircraft Corporation (BAC), the Lightning was a product of the late 1950s arms race, with the need for a fast and agile interceptor to counter the perceived threat of Soviet bombers. The sleek, aerodynamic design of the Lightning, with its distinctive intake configuration and twin engines, made it a formidable presence in the skies. The prototype, affectionately known as ER103 or F.23/49, underwent rigorous testing and development, leading to the production of over 300 Lightning aircraft for the Royal Air Force. The Lightning served with distinction in various roles, including interception, ground-attack, and reconnaissance, until its retirement in 1988. This photograph, taken during the early stages of the Lightning's development, captures the excitement and innovation of the 1950s military aviation industry, as well as the determination to push the boundaries of what was possible in aircraft design. The English Electric Lightning P-1A prototype remains an iconic symbol of British aviation history and a testament to the ingenuity and vision of its designers and engineers.
MADE IN THE USA
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools
FREE COLORIZATION SERVICE
You can choose advanced AI Colorization for this picture at no extra charge!
SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you
* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Cart.