English Electric Lightning
Summary
| Category | Combat Aircraft |
| Origin country | 🇬🇧 United Kingdom |
| Manufacturer | English Electric |
| First flight | 4 August 1954 |
| Year introduced | 1960 |
| Number produced | 337 units |
| Average unit price | $2 million |
Technical specifications
| Version: Lightning F.6 | |
|---|---|
| Crew | 1 pilot |
| Operational range | 1,367 km (849 mi) |
| Maximum speed | 2414 km/h (1500 mph) |
| Wing area | 44.1 m² (474.5 sqft) |
| Wingspan | 10.6 m (34.8 ft) |
| Height | 6.0 m (19.6 ft) |
| Length | 16.8 m (55.1 ft) |
| Service ceiling | 16,459 m (53,999 ft) |
| Empty weight | 14,092 kg (31,068 lbs) |
| Max. takeoff weight | 20,752 kg (45,750 lbs) |
| Climb rate | 100.0 m/s (328.1 ft/s) |
| Powerplant | 2 x turbojets Rolls-Royce Avon 301R delivering 11368 kgf each |
| Ejection seat | Martin-Baker Mk 4 |
Current operating countries
No country is operating the Lightning in 2026.
All operators
Armament
Missiles payload:
- Air-to-Air Short-Range De Havilland Firestreak
Description
The Lightning was the United Kingdom's first supersonic fighter aircraft, capable of exceeding Mach 2.
Its design was quite unusual, featuring two stacked engines, a 60° swept wing, and an air intake located in the nose of the aircraft. Despite a reduced fuel capacity, it was an aircraft without any major handling issues.
It was completely retired from British service in 1988. A total of 322 aircraft were built, with only around forty being exported.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of aircraft is the Lightning?
The English Electric Lightning is a combat aircraft aircraft developed by English Electric and entered service in 1960.
What is the maximum speed of the Lightning?
The English Electric Lightning has a maximum speed of 2,414 km/h (Mach 2.0).
What is the range of the Lightning?
The English Electric Lightning has an operational range of 1,367 km (849 miles). This range can vary based on payload, altitude, and mission profile.
When did the Lightning first fly?
The English Electric Lightning made its first flight on August 04, 1954. It entered operational service in 1960.
How many Lightning have been built?
Approximately 337 units of the English Electric Lightning have been produced since it entered service in 1960.
How much does a Lightning cost?
The English Electric Lightning has an estimated unit cost of approximately $2.0 million. Actual prices vary based on configuration, quantity ordered, and included support packages.
What is the service ceiling of the Lightning?
The English Electric Lightning has a service ceiling of 16,459 meters (53,999 feet). This is the maximum altitude at which the aircraft can maintain controlled flight.
Wikipedia and other open sources.
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