As dawn breaks over Bruntingthorpe Airfield, the echoes of Cold War history resonate through the cold winter air, accompanied by the hum of camera shutters. Where the past meets the present, imagination takes flight, and inspiration flows with the crisp winter breeze.
Lightning History
In the aftermath of World War II and the early days of the Cold War, the Royal Air Force (RAF) needed a supersonic interceptor to defend Britain’s nuclear V-Bomber bases, which housed the Valiant, Vulcan, and Victor bombers, against the threat of Russian supersonic bombers like the Tu-22 Blinder, and more conventional bombers such as the Tu-16 Badger and Tu-95 Bear. English Electric responded to the RAF’s demand, designing a powerful, fire-breathing jet capable of reaching Mach 2 and altitudes of up to 88,000 feet—16.6 miles above the earth. Thus, the English Electric Lightning was born. With a radical delta wing design swept to an unprecedented 60 degrees, the Lightning was agile and streamlined, making its mark as a highly effective interceptor. Powered by two Rolls-Royce Avon Turbojet 301R engines, mounted in a staggered arrangement, the Lightning’s engines produced 32,720 pounds of thrust with full reheat, roughly equivalent to 80,000 horsepower. This arrangement also reduced drag by 25% compared to a conventional engine setup. In 1962, trials were conducted between the RAF and USAF to determine if the U-2 reconnaissance plane could be intercepted by a conventional fighter. Air Cdre John Mitchell flew Lightning F1As, successfully intercepting U-2s at altitudes as high as 84,000 feet. The Americans were less than thrilled with the result.
The Lightning’s combination of power, agility, and air superiority made it a formidable force, especially when armed with a variety of weapons. Initially, the Firestreak missile—capable of targeting rear-facing aircraft—was the primary weapon. Later, the more advanced Red Top missile, with greater range and a superior guidance system, replaced it. In addition to missiles, Lightnings were armed with twin 30mm Aden cannons, capable of firing at 1,700 rounds per minute. The Lightning was also exported to Kuwait and Saudi Arabia, where it was adapted for multirole use, carrying air-to-ground weaponry. In these export versions, the F.53 (single-seat) and T.55 (trainer) were equipped with rocket pods and bombs, making the Lightning a versatile addition to the air forces of the Middle East. Over its 34 years of service, including the prototype phase, a total of 337 Lightning airframes were produced in 16 different variants. However, as technology advanced and budgets tightened, aircraft like the Lightning retired and were relegated to history. Luckily, a dedicated group of engineers, historians, and enthusiasts in the UK are preserving the history of these Cold War warriors, ensuring their legacy endures for future generations.
The Lightning Preservation Group (LPG)
The LPG is a small, passionate team based at Bruntingthorpe Airfield in Leicestershire since 1988, where they work tirelessly to preserve these iconic jets. One of the group’s most significant achievements was in 1988, when the RAF accepted the LPG’s tender for their first Lightning: XR728, a model from Warton, delivered in June 1998. This aircraft made several low passes before retiring to Bruntingthorpe, where it was meticulously maintained to the highest standards by the LPG. In 1993, the group acquired its second supersonic Lightning, F.6 XS904, flown in by Deputy Chief Test Pilot Peter Orme. XS904’s delivery marked the last ever military flight of an RAF-owned Lightning.
Due to regulations, these aircraft can no longer fly in UK airspace under private ownership, but the LPG’s goal was clear from the outset: to keep both aircraft in fully taxiable condition. Maintaining and operating these jets is an expensive endeavor, but the LPG found innovative ways to raise funds, including hosting biannual events where aviation enthusiasts gather to witness the thrill of Lightnings thundering down the runway at 150 mph with full reheat. In 1994, the LPG acquired a Quick Reaction Alert (QRA) hangar, or “Q-shed,” from RAF Wattisham. This Cold War-era structure offered crucial protection for the jets and became another vital piece of aviation history preserved by the group.
While the LPG no longer has access to the runway at Bruntingthorpe, they continue to host events and offer opportunities for aviation photographers to capture these historical aircraft. Through their partnership with the Centre of Aviation Photography (COAP), the LPG provides one-of-a-kind photo shoots, allowing photographers to capture Lightnings in action while raising funds to support preservation efforts. The LPG also operates a shop and website where aviation enthusiasts can purchase Lightning-themed merchandise, and they can be found on social media platforms under the “English Electric Lightning Appreciation Group.”
The Centre of Aviation Photography (COAP)
In 2015, Rich Cooper, founder of COAP, teamed up with lifelong friend Steve Comber to offer some of the world’s best air-to-air photography opportunities. This venture quickly earned COAP a reputation as one of the most prestigious air-to-air photography operators. COAP WINGS offers exclusive photoshoots for small groups of photographers, capturing everything from military jets to iconic civilian aircraft. Although the COVID-19 pandemic temporarily halted these activities, it also inspired Rich to create COAP ONLINE, a platform designed for aviation photographers of all levels to learn, share, and connect. Through online tuition and community engagement, COAP has become a hub for photographers eager to improve their skills and build lasting friendships. For more information, visit www.coapwings.com
The 2025 Lightning Photoshoot
On January 18, 2025, the LPG and COAP once again collaborated for a Cold War-era re-enactment photoshoot. The atmosphere at Bruntingthorpe was electric as the hangar doors opened, revealing the gleaming Avon engines of the Lightnings. Re-enactors in period costumes added to the authenticity of the scene, as crews prepped the jets and pilots scrambled to their aircraft. The event was a tribute to the fast-paced, high-stakes world of Cold War aviation, with photographers working together to capture the perfect shot. Afterward, the images were processed to preserve the history and spirit of the era, ensuring that these Cold War warriors will not be forgotten.
These aircraft once defended the skies of the UK, and now it’s our turn to protect their history. Thanks to the dedication of the LPG, COAP, and countless enthusiasts, the legacy of the Lightning continues to inspire future generations.
