Corporate Prelude by Philip West

The Falklands conflict led to the Vulcan being used for the first time in anger in 25 years of RAF service; 44, 50 and 101 Sqdn. aircraft were involved in "Operation Corporate" with five crews selected, two from 50 Sqdn., one each from 44 Sqdn. and 101 Sqdn., plus others from the disbanded 9 Sqdn.

This beautiful painting portrays the mighty XM607 at altitude during the work up period prior to active operations.

During the Falklands War XM607, piloted by Martin Withers, flew there and back from the Ascension Islands non-stop, covering a staggering 7,500 miles; the flight lasted 15 hours 45 minutes – at the time, the longest combat flight in history. The Vulcan was refuelled by Victor tankers five times on the outward journey and once on the return journey.

Signature:

Flt. Lt. Martin WITHERS