TSR2 THE GREATEST AIRCRAFT THE RAF NEVER FLEW?

Arguably the most controversial aircraft in British history, the TSR2 still has the power to divide opinion. Was it rightly cancelled or a missed opportunity? Dr Kevin Wright weighs up the arguments.

img_18-1_125.jpg
It wasn’t long before dark clouds gathered over the TSR2 programme. Aircraft XR222 was stored for years at what is now Cranfield University. Usually displayed indoors at the Imperial War Museum Duxford, it is captured on camera on a rare venture outside.
Darren Harbar

Technological masterpiece or expensive white elephant? Whatever your viewpoint, there’s no denying the enigmatic British Aircraft Corporation (BAC) TSR2 still casts a shadow over the British aircraft industry more than half a century after it first took to the air.

Become a Premium Member to Read More

This is a premium article and requires an active Key.Aero subscription to view.

I’m an existing member, sign me in!

I don’t have a subscription…

Enjoy the following subscriber only benefits:

  • Unlimited access to all KeyAero content
  • Exclusive in-depth articles and analysis, videos, quizzes added daily
  • A fully searchable archive – boasting hundreds of thousands of pieces of quality aviation content
  • Access to read all our leading aviation magazines online - meaning you can enjoy the likes of FlyPast, Aeroplane Monthly, AirForces Monthly, Combat Aircraft, Aviation News, Airports of the World, PC Pilot and Airliner World - as soon as they leave the editor’s desk.
  • Access on any device- anywhere, anytime
  • Choose from our offers below