RAF Belfast
XR 362 prototype and first of 10 Shorts Belfast long distance heavy transports delivered to the RAF 53 Squadron based at Fairford and Brize Norton in 1964. Withdrawn in 1976 and scrapped 1994. The Belfasts were well regarded by aircrew and ground crew alike and could carry heavier cargos than the later Hercules. They were the first military transports anywhere in the world with automatic landing capability. When withdrawn from the RAF 5 were purchased by a private company Heavy Lift Air Cargo and chartered back when required for the Falklands war and first Gulf war. One Belfast was still in service in Australia as late as 2009, not bad for an aircraft designed in the late 1950's! Enjoy.
About the Artist
David Briggs
Self taught, member of Guild of Motoring Artists and Guild of Railway Artists. Paint solely in Acrylics
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