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Royal Air Force - Folland Gnat F Mk. 1 XK740
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Royal Air Force - Folland Gnat F Mk. 1 XK740
Royal Air Force - Folland Gnat F Mk.1 XK740. One of a small batch of Fighter Gnats for evaluation by the Royal Air Force on display at RAF Church Fenton. Date: circa 1960
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Media ID 21132019
© The Peter Butt Aviation Collection / Mary Evans Picture Library
1960 Batch Evaluation Fenton Folland Gnat Gnats
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This photograph showcases the Royal Air Force (RAF) Folland Gnat F Mk. 1 XK740, one of a select group of Fighter Gnats that underwent evaluation trials by the British military aviation branch during the late 1950s and early 1960s. The Folland Gnat, a versatile and agile single-engine jet trainer and light combat aircraft, was designed and manufactured by Folland Aircraft Limited in England. The image, taken circa 1960, depicts the XK740 on display at RAF Church Fenton, a Royal Air Force station located in North Yorkshire, England. The aircraft, with its sleek lines and distinctive shape, appears poised for takeoff against the backdrop of the airbase's hangars and runway. The Folland Gnat, with its powerful Armstrong Siddeley Viper ASV.17 engine, could reach a top speed of over 600 miles per hour and boasted impressive maneuverability, making it an ideal platform for training future RAF pilots in advanced flying techniques. The aircraft's compact size and low operating costs also made it an attractive option for various roles within the RAF, including as a fighter interceptor and target tug. The successful evaluation trials of the Folland Gnat led to its adoption by the RAF, with the first operational squadron, No. 1 FTS, forming in 1961. The aircraft remained in service until the late 1990s, making a significant contribution to the training and development of generations of RAF pilots. This photograph offers a fascinating glimpse into the history of military aviation and the evolution of the Royal Air Force's fleet, with the Folland Gnat F Mk. 1 XK740 serving as a testament to the innovative design and engineering that shaped the aviation industry during the mid-20th century.
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