By Kevin Wilkins
On November 9, 2025, the Nimrod Preservation Group announced urgent developments concerning the future of Hawker Siddeley Nimrod XV232, widely known as “The Mighty Hunter.” Earlier that week, the group received formal notification from Coventry Airport, along with other on-site tenants, that all operations at the airfield must cease by May 9, 2026. The announcement triggered immediate efforts to determine a viable future for the historic aircraft. The group described the situation as unexpected, noting that a series of critical decisions must now be made within a very limited timeframe.
In an update issued in early December, the Nimrod Preservation Group outlined the options currently under review. Three potential paths are being assessed: transporting the aircraft by road to the RAF Manston History Museum; undertaking a one-off ferry flight to Manston International Airport; or, if no alternative proves feasible, scrapping the aircraft. The group emphasized that no final decision has been made and reaffirmed its commitment to preserving XV232 wherever possible. Discussions are ongoing with engineers, regulatory authorities, and partner organizations to explore all realistic solutions, with further updates to be released as they become available.
As part of its long-standing fundraising activities, the Nimrod Preservation Group has regularly conducted public engine runs of XV232 over the years. However, due to the current uncertainty surrounding the aircraft’s future, these popular events will now come to an end. One final engine run is scheduled to take place on January 17 at Coventry Airport. The event will include two engine runs, with a third to be conducted if required, marking the last opportunity to witness the aircraft’s Rolls-Royce Spey turbofan engines in operation at the site.
Although tickets for the event have sold out, the group confirmed that, subject to a donation, it may still be possible for members of the public to witness the final engine runs. A representative of the Nimrod Preservation Group stated that this occasion will feature one of the longest engine runs conducted to date, offering a final chance to hear “The Mighty Hunter” come to life at Coventry Airport. For more information about the Nimrod Preservation Group, visit www.xv232.com.
