de Havilland Vampire G-VTII

About the Aircraft

The de Havilland DH100 Vampire, introduced in the mid-1940s, was one of the United Kingdom’s first jet fighters and the RAF’s second operational jet aircraft after the Gloster Meteor. Conceived in 1941 during World War II, the Vampire was designed to exploit the emerging technology of jet propulsion, utilizing a single Halford H.1 (later Goblin) turbojet engine housed within a distinctive twin-boom configuration. Its development was spearheaded by the de Havilland Aircraft Company, which leveraged its expertise in both wood and metal aircraft construction. The Vampire made its maiden flight on September 20, 1943, and entered service with the Royal Air Force in 1946, swiftly replacing many piston-engined fighters due to its superior speed and performance. The aircraft set several aviation milestones, including being the first jet to cross the Atlantic Ocean and the first pure-jet aircraft to operate from an aircraft carrier.

Throughout its operational history, the Vampire proved to be a versatile and reliable platform, adapted into numerous variants to fulfill roles ranging from interceptor and ground-attack missions to advanced pilot training. Its adaptability facilitated widespread export, with nearly 3,300 units manufactured and serving in 31 air forces worldwide. Notable versions included the Sea Vampire for naval operations, the FB.5 fighter-bomber, and the DH.115 Vampire trainer. The Vampire saw combat in various conflicts such as the Suez Crisis, the Malayan Emergency, and the Rhodesian Bush War, demonstrating its effectiveness in diverse environments. Production continued until the mid-1960s, when advancements in jet technology and the introduction of more sophisticated aircraft led to its retirement. The Vampire’s enduring legacy lies in its role in transitioning air forces from piston-engined fighters to the jet age, cementing its place as a significant milestone in military aviation history.

Specifications

Vampire T.11

The de Havilland DH115 Vampire T.11 was a significant variant of the de Havilland Vampire series, developed primarily as a jet trainer for the Royal Air Force (RAF). Introduced in the early 1950s, the T.11 was derived from the night fighter variant, the DH.113, which had been designed for export. The configuration of the T.11 included a two-seat cockpit, allowing for an instructor and a trainee pilot, thereby facilitating advanced pilot training in jet operations. The aircraft was powered by the de Havilland Goblin 35 turbojet engine, which provided a thrust of approximately 3,350 lbf, enabling the T.11 to reach a maximum speed of 548 mph and a service ceiling of 42,800 feet. A total of 526 T.11 units were built, with production split between de Havilland and Fairey Aviation.

The T.11 quickly became a mainstay of RAF training programs, effectively replacing older piston-engined trainers with its advanced jet capabilities. Its design featured a simple and robust airframe, which made it relatively easy to handle for novice pilots transitioning from propeller-driven aircraft. The Vampire T.11 was notable for its versatility and was used not only for basic flight training but also for advanced maneuvers and aerobatics. Some T.11s were equipped with ejection seats, enhancing safety during training operations. The aircraft served in the RAF until the mid-1960s, when it was gradually replaced by more modern training aircraft, such as the Folland Gnat.

In addition to its role in the RAF, the T.11 was also exported to several countries, contributing to the development of jet training programs worldwide. Variants based on the T.11 were produced in Australia, and some were modified for specific roles, including reconnaissance. The T.11’s legacy endures as a vital component in the evolution of jet training, marking a pivotal transition in military aviation from piston engines to turbojet technology, and it remains a testament to the successful design and engineering of the de Havilland Vampire series.

Did You Know?

• The DH.100 Vampire was a versatile aircraft, serving as both a single-seat day fighter and a fighter-bomber, showcasing its adaptability to various military roles.
• Among the Vampire variants, the F.1 was the primary single-seat fighter version for the RAF, with 228 production aircraft built. Notably, 30 of these were later transferred to the French Air Force for familiarization.
• The FB.5 variant of the Vampire was particularly prolific, with 1,123 units constructed, including a significant number for the RAF. This model featured clipped wings and was specifically designed as a fighter-bomber.
• The Vampire’s design extended beyond the UK, with notable exports including 310 units of the FB.6 to Sweden, known as the J 28B, which were later relegated to an attack role.
• The NF.10 Vampire was a two-seat night fighter version, with 81 units built for the RAF. It was later exported, with countries like Italy and India acquiring refurbished models for their air forces.

Performer Information

The de Havilland Vampire T.11, serial number WZ507, was constructed in 1952 and subsequently taken on charge by the Royal Air Force in 1953. Initially assigned to the 229 Operational Conversion Unit (OCU) at Chivenor in 1954, the aircraft underwent modifications at Marshalls in Cambridge, where it received a new bubble canopy and ejection seats. Over the years, WZ507 transitioned through various units, including the 8 Flight Training School (FTS) at Swinderby in 1959, followed by a transfer to the 5 FTS at Oakington in 1961. In 1963, it was reassigned to the 3/4 Civil Anti-Aircraft Co-Operation Unit (CAACU) in Exeter, and in 1964, it was posted to the Central Air Traffic Control School (CATCS) at Shawbury. The aircraft was eventually struck off charge from the RAF in 1969.

Following its retirement from military service, WZ507 was transferred to Solway Aviation Museum at Carlisle Airport in Cumberland, England, where it was restored. In 1980, it was assigned a civil registration as G-VTII. The aircraft gained further recognition in 1982 when it was featured in the production of the BBC program “The Aerodrome.” By 1985, WZ507 was acquired by the Vintage Aircraft Team at Cranfield and subsequently placed in storage. In 2002, it was restored to flying condition by de Havilland Aviation in Swansea. The Vampire then became part of the Vampire Preservation Group at North Weald Airport in Essex, England, in 2005. On April 20, 2005, ownership was transferred to Mark Brian Hooton, a trustee of the Vampire Preservation Group, while retaining its civil registration G-VTII.

Despite a temporary hiatus from airshows following the 2015 Shoreham Airshow crash involving a Hawker Hunter and the subsequent restrictions imposed on classic jets in the UK, WZ507 has gradually re-emerged in the airshow circuit since 2021. The crash led to increased scrutiny and regulations affecting the operation of classic military jets, temporarily sidelining many aircraft, including the Vampire. However, WZ507’s successful restoration and return to flight status have allowed it to once again take to the skies, showcasing the enduring legacy of the de Havilland Vampire T.11 and its significance in aviation history.