The Briefing

On 21 August 1974, the Hawk T1 prototype (XX154) took flight from Dunsfold, soaring to 20,000 ft in just 53 minutes and hitting speeds above 360 mph. Piloted by Duncan Simpson, the trials continued the next day—reaching 27,000 ft and nearly 500 mph. With minimal adjustments, the Hawk entered RAF service in just 27 months, offering exceptional handling and visibility. Today, it remains the iconic jet trainer of the Red Arrows, serving multiple air forces and evolving from advanced trainer to interceptor, including the modern T2 variant introduced in 2009.

From Biplanes to Typhoons: The Remarkable Century of No. 29 Squadron

The RAF station that was at the frontline of Allied defences during the Cold War

The RAF’s big yellow bird that signified help had arrived

The Squadron that delivered Thunderbolts in defence and attack for 65 glorious years

MANY people may have visited Cosford without even realising it is a fully-functioning RAF station, the Midlands Museum a visitor centre dedicated to the history of aviation, and the RAF in particular.

The bomber that shouldered the workload ahead of the Lancaster’s arrival into World War Two

The longest serving RAF maritime patrol aircraft known for its ‘growl’