English Electric Lightning
British interceptor aircraft, recognized for Cold War era service, extensively deployed for high speed, high altitude defensive roles. Key figures: top speed 2,414 km/h, range 1,482 km, service ceiling 16,459 m, max takeoff weight 20,752 kg, unit price $2M, built 337.
Max speed
2,414km/h
Range
1,482km
Produced
337units
Avg unit price
$2 million
Side profile · English Electric Lightning · length 16.8 m
Technical SpecificationsVersion: Lightning F.6
| Crew | 1 |
| Length | 16.8 m (55.1 ft) |
| Wingspan | 10.6 m (34.8 ft) |
| Height | 6.0 m (19.6 ft) |
| Wing area | 44.1 m² (474.5 sqft) |
| Empty weight | 14,092 kg (31,068 lbs) |
| Max. takeoff weight | 20,752 kg (45,750 lbs) |
| Powerplant | 2 × turbojets Rolls-Royce Avon 301R 7,421 kgf each |
| Ejection seat | Martin-Baker Mk 4 |
PerformanceVersion: Lightning F.6
| Maximum speed | 2414 km/h (Mach 2.41) |
| Operational range | 1,482 km (921 mi) |
| Service ceiling | 16,459 m (53,999 ft) |
| Climb rate | 100.0 m/s (328.1 ft/s) |
Operators — 2026
No country is operating the English Electric Lightning in 2026.
Armament
Missiles payload
- Air-to-Air Short-Range De Havilland Firestreak
- Air-to-Air Short-Range Hawker Siddeley Red Top
All Operators
Description
The Lightning was the United Kingdom's first supersonic fighter aircraft, capable of exceeding Mach 2.
Design
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.
Operational History
It was completely retired from British service in 1988. A total of 322 aircraft were built, with only around forty being exported.
Wikipedia (CC BY-SA) and other open sources.
Illustrations generated by AI.
Last updated on 12 August 2026.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What type of aircraft is the English Electric 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 English Electric Lightning?
The English Electric Lightning has a maximum speed of 2,414 km/h (Mach 2.0).
What is the range of the English Electric Lightning?
The English Electric Lightning has an operational range of 1,482 km (920 miles). This range can vary based on payload, altitude, and mission profile.
When did the English Electric Lightning first fly?
The English Electric Lightning made its first flight on August 04, 1954. It entered operational service in 1960.
How many English Electric 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 English Electric 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 English Electric 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.
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Latest Data Updates
- AUG 122026 Updated Range corrected to the ferry range
- AUG 72026 Updated Sources and cross-references refreshed
- AUG 52026 Updated Thrust updated
- JUL 272026 Updated Name updated
- JUL 232026 Updated Sources and cross-references refreshed
- JUN 262026 Updated Missiles updated
- APR 72026 Updated Sources and cross-references refreshed