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Malta-based This page list the aircraft of the various squadrons that spent several years based in Malta. As it would be too complicated to list when each aircraft joined and/or left the squadron, only the serials of aircraft that are known to have served have been given. Appropriate notes are given where necessary.
Shackleton histories in this page have been taken from John Botwood’s web site, The Avro Shackleton .
Histories, were available, about other aircraft were taken from the UK Serials Resource Centre at www.ukserials.com.
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RAF Luqa remembered David Rose spent 18 months stationed at RAF Luqa (September 1972 – February 1974) and has set up his own tribute to RAF Luqa.
Visit his site at RAF Luqa Remembered.
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No. 13 Squadron No. 13, equipped with PR.9s, started operating from RAF Luqa in 1965, after its arrival from RAF Akrotiri, Cyprus. It remained here until January 72, when it again returned to RAF Akrotiri, until disagreement between the Maltese and British government, mainly on the amount to be paid as rent for the use of Maltese military facilities, were ironed out. Once this issue was settled, the squadron returned on 10 October 1972, this time with a mixed fleet of PR.7s and PR.9s, as well as a couple of T.4s. Additional aircraft returned a few days later.
The last PR.9, XH136, left in October 1976, leaving 13 Squadron with an-all PR.7 fleet, plus a T.4 for pilot training. It continued to operate from RAF Luqa until 29 September 1978, when it flew a nine-aircraft commemorative fly-past, bringing to an end both the Diamond Jubilee celebrations and the end of their operations from Malta. The squadron disbanded, and started departing for RAF Wyton as from 3 October. The squadron currently flies Tornados.
| SERIAL/s | VARIANT | NOTES | | WH773 | PR.7 | d/d 11/09/1953, s.o.c. 09/06/1981, to 8696M, to Wyton ATC 09/06/1981, pres. Charlwood - Museum, Surrey. | | WH775 | PR.7 | To 8128M/8868M, cockpit preserved Welshpool, Powys, Wales. | | WH794 | PR.7 | d/d 23/06/1954, to 8652M 15/07/1980, s.o.c. 22/03/1983, to Catterick Fire School 01/1984, since perished. | | WJ815 | PR.7 | To 8729M at Coningsby, scr. circa 1992. | | WJ821 | PR.7 | To 8668M. | | WJ825 | PR.7 | To 8697M at Honington, to Catterick Fire School 24/10/1985, since perished. | | WT519 | PR.7 | To Wyton fire dump, scr. 14/02/2006. | | WT530 | PR.7 | This aircraft crashed on take-off (from RAF Luqa) on 07.12.78. The pilot and navigator ejected, but a third airman, occupying the jump seat, perished with the aircraft. The PR.7 was departing for RAF Wyton, its new base, after having served with No.13. I have since received the following e-mail. "The fatality in the WT530 (Canberra) was a trainee navigator and was not in the jump seat but was in the old bomb aimers position...That’s if I remember correctly and I believe that I do." | | WT532 | PR.7 | To 8728M, 8890M. | | XH136 | PR.9 | d/d 1959, to 8782M 08/02/1983. | | XH166 | PR.9 | d/d 15/10/1982 to FACh as 341 | | XH167 | PR.9 | d/d 15/10/1982 to FACh as 342, w/o 05/1983. | | XH171 | PR.9 | d/d 1960. | | XH173 | PR.9 | d/d 1960, d/d 15/10/1982 to FACh as 343. | | XH174 | PR.9 | d/d 1960 | | WJ872/2 | T.4 | At one point in the early seventies, this aircraft served with the Transit Aircraft Servicing Flight. S.o.c. 18/05/1976, to 8492M, fuselage to Foulness Island, since scr. | | WT478/3 | T.4 | At one point in the early seventies, this aircraft served with the Transit Aircraft Servicing Flight. Scr. Wyton 07/1992. |
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No. 37 Squadron As far as post-WWII operations are concerned,the Squadron moved to Palestine (from Egypt) on 2nd October 1945, but returned in December, disbanding on 31 March 1946. On 15 April 1946, No. 214 Squadron at Fayid was renumbered No. 37, flying Lancasters until disbandment on 1 April 1947. Reformed again in Palestine on 14 September 1947 with Lancasters in the maritime reconnaissance role until a move to Malta in May 1948. Conversion to Shackletons took place in August 1953 until moving to Aden in August 1957, and disbandment ten years later on 7 September 1967.
This squadron added in December 2009.
| SERIAL/s | VARIANT | HISTORY | NOTES | | WL754 | MR.2/AEW.2 | First flown 18.3.52 and A/Cn 24.4.53. To Hawarden 7.5.53 and on to 23MU Aldergrove the following day. Allocated to MEAF and prepared for delivery by the Overseas Ferry Unit, Benson, 26.8.53. ToC by 137MU Safi 1.9.53 and issued to 37 Sqn 4.9.53 coded A. Suffered a Cat.3 flying accident 7.9.53 when the pilot touched down heavily short of the Luqa runway, damaged the tailwheels, overshot and made a successful landing on the mainwheels. To 137MU 8.9.53 for repair and reissue to 37 Sqn 14.12.53 still coded A. To CAPMF St Mawgan 11.3.54 for mods, returning 31.3.54. To 137MU Safi 8.11.54 for major servicing (probably at Langar) Issued to 38 Sqn 27.1.55 and coded Z. Underwent mods 10.2.55 - 24.3.55. Another Cat.3 flying accident occurred 14.11.55 when the pilot made a heavy landing and detached the tailwheels. WL754 was transferred to Safi 21.11.55 for repair and on completion the aircraft was reallocated to 37 Sqn 13.10.56 as G. Mods and Cat.3 repairs by Avro CWP 7.1.57 - 15.3.57, the aircraft being transferred to 38 Sqn 25.6.57 and recoded V. To 37 Sqn 1.8.57 for move to Khommaksar, remaining until allocated to Avro 15.10.59 for Phase I modification, the work commencing 22.10.59. Completed 15.9.60, WL754 was delivered to 42 Sqn the following day and coded F. Damage caused 22.11.61 by Cat.3 flying accident was repaired on site and the aircraft transferred to Avro Langar for Phase II update. This was completed 15.6.62, the aircraft returning to 42 Sqn 18.6.62 still as F. Underwent further Cat.3 repair 6-25.11.63 and allocated to HSA Langar 25.2.66 for Phase III conversion. On completion was despatched to 205 Sqn 30.4.67 and coded J. Allocated to the Ballykelly Wing 6.1.69, but the move cancelled and WL754 ferried to HSA Bitteswell 17.1.69 on loan for TI of the Ferranti airstream direction detector (ADD) equipment (improved stall warning). Transferred to MinTech loan 7.7.69 for flight trials, WL754 arriving Woodford 13.8.69. On completion of trials 30.9.69 the aircraft was despatched to the Ballykelly Wing 13.10.69 and recoded H. To 204 Sqn 10.70, still as H, but ferried to 5MU for storage 2.4.71. Delivered to HSA Bitteswell 22.3.72 for AEW.2 conversion. First flew as such 9.72 and sent to 5MU 18.10.72 for repainting prior to delivery to Lossiemouth 21.11.72 for radar installation. To 8 Sqn 29.11.72 and named 'Paul '. To Kinloss 20.12.72, but returned to Lossiemouth the next day and was finally delivered 5.1.73. To Lossiemouth with unit 14.8.73. Withdrawn 1.81 and allocated to Valley for crash rescue/fire practice. Flown from Lossiemouth to Valley 22.1.81 and allotted maintenance serial 8665M, but retained by unit following a local 'Save the Shack' campaign, and put on display. | | | WL755 | MR 2 | First flown 30.3.53 and A/Cn 30.4.53. To 23MU 5.5.53 and allocated to MEAF. Delivered via the Overseas Ferry Unit, Benson, 5.8.53 and accepted by 137MU Safi 27.8.53. Issued to 37 Sqn 31.8.53 and coded H. To CAPMF St Mawgan 3-23.3.54 for mods and 137MU 1.5.54 for major servicing (probably at Langar). Returned to 37 Sqn 19.6.54. Autolycus 'special fitment' 29.3.55 - 21.4.55 at 49MU completed at the CCMC St Mawgan 26.4.55. At Safi 20.2.56 - 15.3.56 for further mods. Returned to 37 Sqn, but transferred to 38 Sqn 8.7.56 and recoded U. To Avro for Phase I modifications 12.12.57, completed 10.2.59. Returned to 38 Sqn 6.3.59 still coded U. To Avro 6.3.61 for Phase II update, completed 30.8.61. Issued to 224 Sqn 4.9.61 and recoded T, remaining at Gibraltar until allotted to HSA Langar for Phase III conversion 22.12.65. On completion issued to the Ballykelly Wing 28.3.67 and recoded L. Cat.3 damage 29.4.70 repaired by 60MU 18.5.70 - 10.7.70, and WL755 was transferred to 204 Sqn 10.70 retaining L code. To Majunga Detachment Support Unit 22.7.71, but had returned to the parent unit,204 Sqn, Honington, by 2.72. Ferried to Catterick 9.5.72 for use by the RAF Fire School. Completely burnt out by 12.77. | | | WL756 | MR.2/AEW.2 | First flown 1.4.53 and A/Cn 30.4.53. To 23MU 5.5.53 and prepared for issue to MEAF Delivered to Luqa by the Overseas Ferry Unit, Benson, 28.7.53 and after acceptance checks issued to 37 Sqn 5.8.53 and coded G. To CAPMF St Mawgan 1-19.2.54 for mods and on return to 37 Sqn damaged in Cat.3 flying accident 7.5.54 when the pilot stalled the aircraft on final approach and the tailwheel assembly collapsed on touchdown in the undershoot. Transferred to 137MU Safi for repairs the same day. A 'special fitment' was made 21.10.55 - 5.12.55 after which WL756 was transferred to 38 Sqn 16.12.55 and recoded T. To 49MU for mods 9.10.57 - 19.11.57, returning to 38 Sqn and suffered Cat.3 damage in flying accident 19.3.58. presumably at Akrotiri because it was allocated to 103MU for repairs the same day. Probably also modified to Phase I standard before allotment to HQ British Forces Arabian Peninsula 30.4.59. Issued to 37 Sqn 18.7.59 coded C. To Avro 23.1.61 for Phase II mods, completed 30.4.62. Allocated to FEAF and issued to 205 Sqn 11.6.62 still as C. To HSA 30.10.66 for Phase III mods at Langar and on completion went to the Ballykelly Wing 26.10.67 and was coded V. To HSA for mods 29.10.69 - 10.12.69 when returned to Ballykelly Wing. To 204 Sqn 10.70, retaining code V until going to 5MU 18.1.71 for preparation for despatch to HSA Bitteswell 2.4.71 for AEW.2 conversion. Flown as AEW.2 02.03.72 and redelivered to 5MU 22.3.72 for repainting and acceptance. Flown to Kinloss 4.5.72 and issued to 8 Sqn the following day. To Lossiemouth 19.5.72 for installation of radar before return to Kinloss as 'Mr Rusty' 21.6.72. Transferred to Lossiemouth with unit 17.8.73. To 60MU for modification 29.4.75, but returned to 8 Sqn 5.75. To HSA Bitteswell for major overhaul/mods 7.3.79, returning to 8 Sqn 1980. Currently at St Mawgan on the Station Fire Dump and can be seen from coast road (13,676 hrs at 9.3.89). | | | WL757 | MR.2/AEW.2 | First flown 10.4.53 and A/Cn 30.4.53. To Hawarden 7.5.53, continuing to 23MU Aldergrove the next day. Allocated to MEAF 28.7.53 and delivered by the Overseas Ferry Unit, Benson. To 37 Sqn 5.8.53 and coded D. To CAPMF St Mawgan 19.2.53 for mods, returning to Luqa 3.3.53. To 137MU Safi 20.5.54 for Cat.3 repair, completed 3.6.54, and to Avro Langar 18.9.54 - 6.11.54 for a major servicing. A 'special fitment' installed 22.6.55 - 11.7.55 followed by further mods at Safi 9.1.56 - 23.2.56, the aircraft returning to 37 Sqn three days later still as D. On 8.7.57 WL757 went into temporary storage with 137MU until issued to 38 Sqn and probably coded U. To Avro 29.9.58 for Phase I modifications, completed 29.10.59. To 210 Sqn the following day and coded W. To DH Chester (Hawarden) 27.3.61 for Phase II update, completed 5.12.61. Issued to Z24 Sqn 15.12.61 and coded C, remaining until allocated to HSA Langar 30.3.66 for Phase III modifications. On completion allotted to FEAF and delivered to 205 Sqn 25.5.67. Coded K on arrival. Ferried back to the UK, arriving St Mawgan 12.12.70 for customs clearance before delivery to 5MU Kemble two days later. To HSA Bitteswell 26.8.71 for AEW.2 conversion, first flying in the revised configuration 6.72. To 5MU for repainting 3.7.72 and delivered to Lossiemouth 25.8.72 for radar installation. ToC 8 Sqn 29.8.72 and named 'Brian', moving over to Kinloss 6.9.72. To 60MU 2.5.73 for mods, returning to 8 Sqn and moved to Lossiemouth with the unit 17.8.73. Loaned to MoD (PE) 7.12.73 for service trials and CA clearance of SRIM 3825 (AMTI facility for AN/APS 20F radar) by 'B' Squadron, A&AEE Boscombe Down. Part of trial conducted at Lossiemouth 18 - 20.12.73 and aircraft returned to 8 Sqn 1 .3.74. To HSA Bitteswell 25.10.79 for re-sparring and major servicing, returning to 8 Sqn 1981. Current (13,932 hrs at 9.3.89) at Paphos Airport, Cyprus. | | | WL759 | MR.2 | First flown 24.4.53 and A/Cn 26.5.53. To Hawarden 28.5.53 and on to 23MU for storage the following day. Issued to 37 Sqn 2.9.53 and coded B. To CAPMF St Mawgan 30.3.54 (direct from JASS detachment at Ballykelly), returning to 37 Sqn on completion of mods 15.4.54. Underwent Cat.3 repairs at 137MU Safi 19.5.54 - 14.6.54 when the rear fuselage was strained during a heavy landing. Replaced as B 11.54, WL759 underwent mods 6 - 19.7.55 on completion of repairs and returned to 37 Sqn 2X 7.55 as J. Suffered more Cat.3 damage in another heavy landing 26.11.55, again to 137MU for repair. On completion back with 37 Sqn as J until 5.6.57, when despatched to 49MU for 'special fitment'. On completion to 204 Sqn 27.8.57, uncoded. To 49MU 27.8.58 for Phase I update, completed 24.2.59. Issued to 38 Sqn 10.3.59 and coded V. To Avro Langar 3.1.62 for Phase II modifications. On 30.1.63 WL759 was loaned to the MoA and remained at Langar for Tl of Mod 1103 (carriage of Mk 44 torpedo), Mod 1096 (intercom changes) and Mod 1079 (Dowty Rotol tailwheel jack redesign). To the A&AEE Boscombe Down 22.5.63 for official flight trials of Mod 1103 by 'B' Sqn. An allocation to 23MU 17.12.63 was cancelled and WL759 was retained at Boscombe for carriage and release trials of the modified Marker Marine No.4 Mk I and Underwater Sound Signal Mk 400. On completion the aircraft was delivered to ASWDU. Ballykelly, 18.2.64 and coded B. Cat.3 damage 28.6.66 was repaired by HSA CWP, returning to ASWDU 21.7.66. Allotted to FEAF 1.8.66 and ferried to Changi for 205 Sqn, retaining code B. Recoded N 1.68 and as the last Phase II aircraft in service with 205 Sqn, WL759 took part in a 'goodbye' formation on 8.11.68 flanked by E and D. SoC Cat.5 (Components) 11.11.68 the aircraft was broken up at Changi 1969. | | | WL785 | MR.2 | First flown 10.5.53 and A/Cn 26.5.53. To Hawarden 28.5.53 and on to 23MU the following day for storage. Issued to 37 Sqn 2.9.53 and coded E. To CAPMF 1.54 for mods, returning to Luqa 5.2.54. Received Cat.3 damage 16.9.54 and transferred to 137MU Safi 21.9.54 for repair. Returned to 37 Sqn 9.2.55 still as E, but allocated to Avro Langar 7.4.55 for major servicing, completed 19.7.55. WL785 was returned to 37 Sqn 25.7.55 and underwent further modification 16.4.57 - 6.6.57. Transferred to 38 Sqn 8.7.57 and coded W. To Avro 10.4.58 for Phase I update. Completed 4.6.59. To 42 Sqn 5.6.59 and coded C. To DH Chester (Hawarden) 28.11.60 for Phase II modification, completed 30.6.61. Returned to 42 Sqn 5.7.61 and recoded A. Cat.3 damage sustained 18.12.63 was repaired by 71 MU on site. Completed 3.2.64, WL785 remained with 42 Sqn until allotted to the MoA Air Fleet 7.4.65. Arrived at Boscombe Down 12.4.65 and was used for the clearance of carriage and release of directional sonobuoy Types 9003 and 11514. The aircraft returned to St Mawgan on completion of tests 27.5.65, but on 1.6.65 was delivered to HSA Langar for Phase II1 conversion, completed 25.1.67. To 204 Sqn 27.1.67 and coded P. Transferred to Ballykelly Wing 2.67, retaining code until departed for HSA Bitteswell 3.4.68 for mods. On completion returned to Ballykelly 30.5.68 still as P, reverting to 204 Sqn 10.70. Ferricd to St Athan 5.4.71 and allotted to the Central Training Establishment, arriving Manston 19.5.71. SoC Cat.5(Components) 30.6.71. | | | WL787 | MR.2/T.2 | First flown 18.5.53 and A/Cn 23.6.53. To Hawarden 29.6.53 and on to 23MU for storage the following day. Allotted to MEAF and ferried to 137MU Saf 18.9.53. Issued to 38 Sqn the same day and coded S. To CAPMF St Mawgan 6.2.54 - 2.3.54 for mods and to Safi/ Avro Langar for major servicing 24.5.54 - 23.7.54, when returned to 38 Sqn. Autolycus 'special fitment' by 49MU Colerne 2.3.55 - 13.4.55 completed by CCMC St Mawgan and more mods carried out at 49MU 13.3.56 - 23.4.56. Despatched to Avro for Phase I Tl and CA Release trials 12.2.57 - 19.8.57. On completion returned to Malta and STS at 137MU Safi before reissue to 38 Sqn 11.3.58 and recoded U. Transferred to 37 Sqn 19.9.58 and recoded B. Allotted to Avro 29.1.60 for Phase II update, completed 31.1.61. To 210 Sqn 6.2.61 and coded T. Transferred to 204 Sqn 24.10.66 and coded J until ferried to HSA Langar 14.12.66 for T.2 conversion. On completion issued to MOTU 29.2.68 and coded U. Cat.3 damage 11.2.69 was repaired on site by 71MU, WL787 remaining with MOTU until despatched to 5MU Kemble 2.6.70 for removal of training equipment. Issued to the St Mawgan Gulf Detachment 26.8.70 as a Phase III aircraft, transferring to 210 Sqn 27.10.70 and coded W. Cat.3 damage sustained 14.12.70 was repaired on site at Sharjah, the aircraft returning to 210 Sqn 17.2.71. An allocation to the Fire School at Catterick 1.11.71 was cancelled and the aircraft was delivered to Kinloss 19.11.71. Officially transferred to 8 Sqn for crew training 1.1.72 and named 'Mr MacHenry'. To Lossiemouth 23.5.72, returning to Kinloss 2.6.72. Cat.3 damage in a flying accident 25.1.73 was repaired on site, the aircraft returning to 8 Sqn 15.5.73. Renamed 'Dylan'. To Lossiemouth with unit 16.8.73. When the remaining fatigue life was expended WL787 was grounded and allocated to Lossiemouth 3.1.74 for fire-fighting practice. Broken up by 3.74 and subsequently destroyed. | | | WL788 | MR.2 | First flown 4.6.53 and A/Cn 30.6.53. Delivered to 23MU 8.7.53 for storage. Allotted to MEAF and ferried out to 137MU Safi 2.9.53. Issued to 37 Sqn 11.9.53 and coded C. To CAPMF 26.3.54 - 7.5.54 for mods. To 137MU/Avro Langar 15.7.54-2.9.54 for mods and sent to 49MU Colerne 2-19.5.55 for Autolycus 'special fitment', completed by CCMC St Mawgan before return to 37 Sqn 5.55. Cat.3 damage sustained in a heavy landing 2.7.55 was reassessed Cat.4, but the repair work was completed by 137MU Safi between 15.7.55 and 26.4.56, when WL788 was returned to 37 Sqn. Despatched to 49MU Colerne 28.5.56 for mods, the aircraft being collected 6.7.56. Transferred from 37 to 38 Sqn 8.7.57 and coded R. To Safi for mods 16.10.57 - 30.11.57 after which remained with 38 Sqn until delivered to Avro 29.9.58 for Phase I modification, completed 8.10.59. Reissued to 38 Sqn 24.10.59 still as R. On 10.8.60 the undercarriage collapsed during engine starts at Luqa, the Cat.3 damage being repaired at the Maintenance Base, Safi. Soon after completion WL788 was allocated to DH Chester (Hawarden) 16.11.61 for Phase II update, completed 15.6.62. The aircraft was issued to 42 Sqn 20.6.62 and coded F. Despatched to 23MU 29.11.62 for storage. Delivered to Ballykelly 19.11.64 and ToC by 210 Sqn the following day and coded Z. Cat.3 damage sustained 2.2.66 was repaired by HSA CWP from 10.3.66 and on completion the aircraft was ferried out to Aden for 37 Sqn 10.66. Coded B. On disbandment of the unit WL788 was allotted to 27MU and arrived at Shawbury 12.9.67. Declared NEA the same day, the aircraft was SoC Cat.5 (Scrap) and broken up 11.68. Sold as scrap 28.3.69. | | | WL791 | MR.2 | First flown 16.6.52 and loaned to A.V. Roe & Co for display at the Paris Air Show. A/Cn 30.6.53. To 23MU 18.8.53 for storage. Allotted to MEAF 15.12.53 and issued to 38 Sqn 22.12.53. To 137MU for storage 1.3.54 until issued to 37 Sqn 17.11.54 as A. Underwent Autolycus mods at 49MU/CCMC 14.6.55 - 7.7.55, when returned to 37 Sqn. Transferred to 38 Sqn 8.7.57 and coded Q. More mods 14.2.58 - 14.4.58 (probably Phase I), after which returned to 38 Sqn until again in storage at Safi 22.12.59. Allocated to Avro Langar 25.1.60 for Phase II modernization, completed 16.2.61. To 210 Sqn 23.2.61 and coded V. Cat.3 damage repaired on site by 23MU 22.3.62 - 16.4.62 and 27.6.66 - 26.7.66. Transferred from 210 Sqn to Ballykelly Wing 13.2.67, retaining V code until despatched to 27MU Shawbury 23.5.67. Declared NEA the same day and later Cat.5 (Scrap). Broken up 12.68 and sold as scrap 28.3.69. | | | WR954/G | MR.2 | First flown 19.11.53 and A/Cn 10.12.53. To 23MU 14.1.54 for storage and issued to 37 Sqn 1.4.54 coded G. To 49MU Colerne for Autolycus 'special fitment' 24.3.55 - 14.4.55, the work completed at CCMC St Mawgan 16-19.4.55, when returned to Luqa via St Eval. Mods at 137MU Safi 20.4.56 - 29.5.56, WR954 remaining with 37 Sqn until allocated to Avro Langar 24.9.56 for major servicing, completed 14.2.57. Returned to 37 Sqn 23.2.57, but transferred to 38 Sqn 8.7.57 and coded Z. 'Special fitment' 24.7.58 - 1.10.58 and allocated to Avro Langar 12.6.59 for Phase I update, completed 22.6.60. To 210 Sqn 24.6.60 and coded T. Transferred to 37 Sqn 3.2.61 and coded C until departing for Avro Langar 24.10.61 for Phase II modernization, completed 26.6.62. Issued to 205 Sqn 25.7.62 and coded F until returned to the UK 11.4.66 for Phase III conversion at HSA Langar. On completion 14.6.67 WR954 was reissued to 205 Sqn and coded M. Recoded C 11.70 until ferried back to UK, arriving St Athan 17.9.71. Declared NEA 21.9.71 and SoC Cat.5(Scrap) 9.5.73. | Also served with 38 squadron. | | WR964 | MR.2/T.2 | First flown 18.3.54 and retained by Avro for fitment of enlarged oil coolers. A/Cn 31.3.54, when loaned to C(A) and was despatched to the A&AEE Boscombe Down 14.4.54 for tropical cooling trials at Khartoum, departing Boscombe 21.4.54. Problems encountered with the trials, which were abandoned 20.5.54, the aircraft returning to Boscombe Down 1.6.54. Despatched to Woodford 9.6.54 for further manufacturer's trials on engine cooling and engine exhaust pipes. Aircraft declared surplus to MoS needs 19.10.54 and delivered to 38MU 16.11.54 for storage. To 49MU 13.6.55 for Autolycus 'special fitment', completed 30.6.55, when returned to 38MU for further storage, during which it received enlarged fuselage serials and Rolls-Royce CWP worked on the aircraft. Allocated to MEAF 9.3.56 and on arrival at Luqa issued to 38 Sqn 15.3.56 and coded V. 'Special fitment' at 49MU Colerne commenced 26.9.57, followed by Cat.3 repairs 18.10.57 - 2.12.57. Back to 38 Sqn until 31.3.59, when transferred to 37 Sqn and coded F. To Avro 23.7.59 for Phase I/II modernization, completed 3.3.61. WR964 was issued to 204 Sqn 8.3.61 and coded Q. Cat.3 damage 19.8.63 was repaired by 23MU, completed 29.3.63, the aircraft returning to 204 Sqn 3.9.63. Allotted to HSA Langar 10.2.67 for T.2 modification. On completion issued to MOTU 23.5.68 and coded Z. Cat.3 damage 9.10.69 repaired by 71 MU 23.10.69 - 17.1.70. Despatched to St Athan 29.7.70 and declared NEA 27.11.70. SoC Cat.5(Scrap) 15.11.71. | Transferred from 38 squadron 31.03.59. | | WR965 | MR.2/AEW.2 | First flown 7.4.54 and A/Cn 30.4.54. To Kinloss 11.5.54 and on to 23MU Aldergrove 13.5.54 for storage. Allocated to MEAF 3.11.54 and on delivery issued to 37 Sqn 5.11.54 coded B. To 49MU Colerne for Autolycus 'special fitment' 9-23.7.55, the mod being completed by CCMC St Mawgan before WR965 returned to 37 Sqn. To Safi/Avro Langar for major servicing 13.6.55, returning to 37 Sqn 4.11.56. Transferred to 38 Sqn 8.7.57 and coded S. To 49MU for 'special fitment' 5.6.58 - 23.7.58, but remained on 38 Sqn charge until allocated to Avro Langar 23.5.59 for Phase I modification, completed 31.3.60. To 224 Sqn 6.4.60 and coded T. To DH Chester 28.8.61 for Phase II update, completed 29.3.62. Immediately despatched to the A&AEE Boscombe Down on loan to the MoA for trials on redesigned flame-float launching chute (mod 1013). Released 5.4.62 and allocated to Ballykelly, WR965 being ToC by 203 Sqn 9.4.62 and coded K. Cat.3 damage 9.6.64 repaired by 23MU and aircraft returned to 203 Sqn 23.6.64. Again sustained Cat.3 damage 12.8.65, repaired by 60MU 20.8.65 - 21.9.65, and WR965 was back with 203 Sqn the following day. To HSA Langar 17.3.66 for Phase III modernization, and on completion despatched to 205 Sqn, arriving 24.5.67, when coded L. Recoded E specially for a formation display 8.11.68 to record the retirement of WL759, the last Phase II aircraft on the Squadron. WR965 was also soon to leave Singapore, transferring to the Ballykelly Wing 2.12.68, when recoded Q. Allocated to HSA 18.12.68 and fitted with revised tailplane de-icing panels. Loaned to MinTech 24.3.69 for flight trials from Bitteswell to determine optimum flow rate, completed 9.5.69. Returned to Ballykelly Wing 15.5.69, transferring to 204 Sqn 10.70 still as Q. To 5MU Kemble 2.4.71 for storage. Delivered to HSA Bitteswell for AEW.2 conversion 28.4.72. First flight in revised configuration 15.11.72. To 5MU 28.11.72 for repainting before delivery to Lossiemouth 18.1.73 for radar installation. To Kinloss 31.1.73, returning to Lossiemouth 17.8.73 with unit. Named 'Dill'. To HSA 16.4.74 (after standing in open storage 1.74 - 4.74) for refurbishing. Returned to 8 Sqn, but to 60MU on 29.4.75 for mods and to HSA Bitteswell 1.9.76 for major servicing and re-sparring (2nd in contract). First flight after mods 12.10.77, WR965 returning to Lossiemouth 19.10.77 and 8 Sqn charge two days later. Crashed 30.4.90 near Northton, South Harris, Outer Hebrides. Ten killed. | Transferred from 37 Sqn on 08.07.57 |
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No.38 Squadron 38 squadron originally took up residence at RAF Luqa in July 1945. However it moved to Palestine some time later, and didn’t return until late 1953, when it re-equipped with the Shackleton MR.2. It remained in Malta, based at Hal-Far airfield, until disbanded on 31 March 1967, The serial numbers of this squadron were gathered from the article “Two Weeks in Malta”. In that article, the unidentified author listed four Shackletons whose serial number he never confirmed. These were coded V, X, Y, and Z. Any reader, especially ex-servicemen, who can provide additional information, is welcome to e-mail me. I received the following e-mail from Mr. George Greaves. I have just come across your site whilst browsing through some of my old RAF stations. I was on 38 squadron at Luqa from June 1954 to December 1956. We had eight Mk2 Shackletons coded S-T-U-V-W-X-Y-Z.
In those days that was , Sugar-Tare-Uncle-Victor-Willy-Xray-Yoke-Zebra. | SERIAL/s | VARIANT | HISTORY | NOTES | | WL739 | MR.2/T.2 | First flown 9.12.52 and A/Cn 31.12.52. To 23MU 21.01.53, but retained on Avro charge for rectification 10.3.53. On completion was prepared for service and issued to 240 Sqn 31.3.53. Uncoded. Cat.3 repairs by 278MU on site 14.5.53 - 11.12.53. Transferred to 269 Sqn 12.12.53. To CAPMF St Mawgan 3-12.3.54 for mods and transferred to 204 Sqn 11.8.54 still uncoded. 'Special fitment' 6.4.55 - 4.5.55 and coded P by 5.57. Attached to 38 Sqn, Luqa, Malta, 27.4.58 possibly as W, although still on 204 Sqn strength until sent to Avro 12.58 for Phase I update. On completion delivered to 37 Sqn 20.12.59 and coded D. To Avro Langar 28.4.60 for Phase II conversion, which commenced 2.5.60 and was completed 17.4.61. The work included trials on 'bomb-shaped' wing-mounted air sampler ducts using the old RP mountings. The ducts had a nose cap that could be opened for a prescribed time and then sealed. The control panel was mounted on the starboard side of the fuselage over the main spar. WL739 was reissued to 204 Sqn 19.4.61 and again coded P. Sustained Cat.3 damage, which was repaired by HSA CWP 3-15.6.65, the aircraft remaining with 204 Sqn until allocated to HSA Langar for T.2 conversion. On completion allotted to MOTU 29.12.67 and delivered 3.1.68 (first T.2 in service). Coded S. To HSA Bitteswell for mods15.3.68 - 13.5.68 and Cat.3 25.7.69, the latter repaired by 71MU 28.7.69 - 7 8.6.9 Ferried to 5MU Kemble I .5.70 for removal of training equipment and then issued to the St Mawgan Gulf Detachment 4.8.70 as a PhaseIII aircraft. Arrived Sharjah 10.8.70 and transferred to 210 Sqn 23.10.70, recoded X. Allotted to the RAF Fire School at Catterick 1.11.71 and ferried to St Mawgan for removal of 'Column 9' equipment, arriving 17.11.71. Catterick allotment cancelled and delivered to Manston for fire-fighting training. | | | WL740/U | MR.2C | First flown 18.12.52 and A/Cn 26.1.53. Loaned to CS(A) and retained for development work on internal noise reduction and contractor's trials of long exhaust tail pipes. To 23MU 5.10.53 and issued to 204 Sqn 1.1.54 and possibly coded T-X. To CAPMF St Mawgan 3.2.54 for mods, returning to 204 Sqn 18.2.54. 'Special fitment' installed 26.4.55 - 18.5.55 and gunnery trials at the A&AEE 11 - 14.3.58, testing installation of Bren gun mounted in starboard beam. Attached to 38 Sqn Luqa 27.4.58 and subsequently ToC by unit as Y. To Safi, Malta, 18.12.59 for storage prior to allocation to Avro 15.3.60 for Phase I/II conversion. Completed 9.3.61, WL740 was issued to 38 Sqn 15.3.61 and coded U. To HSA Langar 15.3.67 for T.2 conversion, but the work was not completed, the aircraft being SoC 28.2.68 as Cat.5 (Components). | In 1962, this aircraft carried 'Royal Air Force Coastal Command' across the fin below the fin flash and a union jack above. See article Two weeks in Malta. | | WL756/T | MR.2/AEW.2 | First flown 1.4.53 and A/Cn 30.4.53. To 23MU 5.5.53 and prepared for issue to MEAF Delivered to Luqa by the Overseas Ferry Unit, Benson, 28.7.53 and after acceptance checks issued to 37 Sqn 5.8.53 and coded G. To CAPMF St Mawgan 1-19.2.54 for mods and on return to 37 Sqn damaged in Cat.3 flying accident 7.5.54 when the pilot stalled the aircraft on final approach and the tailwheel assembly collapsed on touchdown in the undershoot. Transferred to 137MU Safi for repairs the same day. A 'special fitment' was made 21.10.55 - 5.12.55 after which WL756 was transferred to 38 Sqn 16.12.55 and recoded T. To 49MU for mods 9.10.57 - 19.11.57, returning to 38 Sqn and suffered Cat.3 damage in flying accident 19.3.58. presumably at Akrotiri because it was allocated to 103MU for repairs the same day. Probably also modified to Phase I standard before allotment to HQ British Forces Arabian Peninsula 30.4.59. Issued to 37 Sqn 18.7.59 coded C. To Avro 23.1.61 for Phase II mods, completed 30.4.62. Allocated to FEAF and issued to 205 Sqn 11.6.62 still as C. To HSA 30.10.66 for Phase III mods at Langar and on completion went to the Ballykelly Wing 26.10.67 and was coded V. To HSA for mods 29.10.69 - 10.12.69 when returned to Ballykelly Wing. To 204 Sqn 10.70, retaining code V until going to 5MU 18.1.71 for preparation for despatch to HSA Bitteswell 2.4.71 for AEW.2 conversion. Flown as AEW.2 02.03.72 and redelivered to 5MU 22.3.72 for repainting and acceptance. Flown to Kinloss 4.5.72 and issued to 8 Sqn the following day. To Lossiemouth 19.5.72 for installation of radar before return to Kinloss as 'Mr Rusty' 21.6.72. Transferred to Lossiemouth with unit 17.8.73. To 60MU for modification 29.4.75, but returned to 8 Sqn 5.75. To HSA Bitteswell for major overhaul/mods 7.3.79, returning to 8 Sqn 1980. Currently at St Mawgan on the Station Fire Dump and can be seen from coast road (13,676 hrs at 9.3.89). | | | WL758 | MR.2 | First flown 17.4.53 and A/Cn 14.5.53. To 23MU 18.5.53 and issued to 120 Sqn 22.6.53. Initially uncoded, becoming A- 9.53. To CAPMF St Mawgan 24.3.54 - 5.4.54 for mods. Transferred to 224 Sqn 8.9.54 and recoded S. To 49MU for mods 22.9.55 - 13.10.55 and more mods completed 27.4.56 - 21.7.56. Recoded 1 for 224 Sqn tour of South America 3.5 - 4.57, reverting to S later in the year. To Avro 14.11.58 for Phase I modification, completed 10.11.59. To 38 Sqn 26.11.59 and coded Y until allotted to Avro 2.5.61 for Phase II update, completed 15.12.60. Returned to 38 Sqn and recoded V. To HSA Langar for Phase III conversion 21.10.66. On completion delivered to the Ballykelly Wing 15.11.67 and coded W. To 204 Sqn 10.70, retaining W coding, and moved with unit to Honington 4.71. Ferried to Catterick 19.5.72 for the RAF Fire School and slowly destroyed. | | | WL759 | MR.2 | First flown 24.4.53 and A/Cn 26.5.53. To Hawarden 28.5.53 and on to 23MU for storage the following day. Issued to 37 Sqn 2.9.53 and coded B. To CAPMF St Mawgan 30.3.54 (direct from JASS detachment at Ballykelly), returning to 37 Sqn on completion of mods 15.4.54. Underwent Cat.3 repairs at 137MU Safi 19.5.54 - 14.6.54 when the rear fuselage was strained during a heavy landing. Replaced as B 11.54, WL759 underwent mods 6 - 19.7.55 on completion of repairs and returned to 37 Sqn 2X 7.55 as J. Suffered more Cat.3 damage in another heavy landing 26.11.55, again to 137MU for repair. On completion back with 37 Sqn as J until 5.6.57, when despatched to 49MU for 'special fitment'. On completion to 204 Sqn 27.8.57, uncoded. To 49MU 27.8.58 for Phase I update, completed 24.2.59. Issued to 38 Sqn 10.3.59 and coded V. To Avro Langar 3.1.62 for Phase II modifications. On 30.1.63 WL759 was loaned to the MoA and remained at Langar for Tl of Mod 1103 (carriage of Mk 44 torpedo), Mod 1096 (intercom changes) and Mod 1079 (Dowty Rotol tailwheel jack redesign). To the A&AEE Boscombe Down 22.5.63 for official flight trials of Mod 1103 by 'B' Sqn. An allocation to 23MU 17.12.63 was cancelled and WL759 was retained at Boscombe for carriage and release trials of the modified Marker Marine No.4 Mk I and Underwater Sound Signal Mk 400. On completion the aircraft was delivered to ASWDU. Ballykelly, 18.2.64 and coded B. Cat.3 damage 28.6.66 was repaired by HSA CWP, returning to ASWDU 21.7.66. Allotted to FEAF 1.8.66 and ferried to Changi for 205 Sqn, retaining code B.Recoded N 1.68 and as the last Phase II aircraft in service with 205 Sqn, WL759 took part in a 'goodbye' formation on 8.11.68 flanked by E and D. SoC Cat.5(Components) 11.11.68 the aircraft was broken up at Changi 1969. | | | WL785 | MR.2 | First flown 10.5.53 and A/Cn 26.5.53. To Hawarden 28.5.53 and on to 23MU the following day for storage. Issued to 37 Sqn 2.9.53 and coded E. To CAPMF 1.54 for mods, returning to Luqa 5.2.54. Received Cat.3 damage 16.9.54 and transferred to 137MU Safi 21.9.54 for repair. Returned to 37 Sqn 9.2.55 still as E, but allocated to Avro Langar 7.4.55 for major servicing, completed 19.7.55. WL785 was returned to 37 Sqn 25.7.55 and underwent further modification 16.4.57 - 6.6.57. Transferred to 38 Sqn 8.7.57 and coded W. To Avro 10.4.58 for Phase I update. Completed 4.6.59. To 42 Sqn 5.6.59 and coded C. To DH Chester (Hawarden) 28.11.60 for Phase II modification, completed 30.6.61. Returned to 42 Sqn 5.7.61 and recoded A. Cat.3 damage sustained 18.12.63 was repaired by 71 MU on site. Completed 3.2.64, WL785 remained with 42 Sqn until allotted to the MoA Air Fleet 7.4.65. Arrived at Boscombe Down 12.4.65 and was used for the clearance of carriage and release of directional sonobuoy Types 9003 and 11514. The aircraft returned to St Mawgan on completion of tests 27.5.65, but on 1.6.65 was delivered to HSA Langar for Phase II1 conversion, completed 25.1.67. To 204 Sqn 27.1.67 and coded P. Transferred to Ballykelly Wing 2.67, retaining code until departed for HSA Bitteswell 3.4.68 for mods. On completion returned to Ballykelly 30.5.68 still as P, reverting to 204 Sqn 10.70. Ferricd to St Athan 5.4.71 and allotted to the Central Training Establishment, arriving Manston 19.5.71. SoC Cat.5(Components) 30.6.71. | | | WL788 | MR.2 | First flown 4.6.53 and A/Cn 30.6.53. Delivered to 23MU 8.7.53 for storage. Allotted to MEAF and ferried out to 137MU Safi 2.9.53. Issued to 37 Sqn 11.9.53 and coded C. To CAPMF 26.3.54 - 7.5.54 for mods. To 137MU/Avro Langar 15.7.54-2.9.54 for mods and sent to 49MU Colerne 2-19.5.55 for Autolycus 'special fitment', completed by CCMC St Mawgan before return to 37 Sqn 5.55. Cat.3 damage sustained in a heavy landing 2.7.55 was reassessed Cat.4, but the repair work was completed by 137MU Safi between 15.7.55 and 26.4.56, when WL788 was returned to 37 Sqn. Despatched to 49MU Colerne 28.5.56 for mods, the aircraft being collected 6.7.56. Transferred from 37 to 38 Sqn 8.7.57 and coded R. To Safi for mods 16.10.57 - 30.11.57 after which remained with 38 Sqn until delivered to Avro 29.9.58 for Phase I modification, completed 8.10.59. Reissued to 38 Sqn 24.10.59 still as R. On 10.8.60 the undercarriage collapsed during engine starts at Luqa, the Cat.3 damage being repaired at the Maintenance Base, Safi. Soon after completion WL788 was allocated to DH Chester (Hawarden) 16.11.61 for Phase II update, completed 15.6.62. The aircraft was issued to 42 Sqn 20.6.62 and coded F. Despatched to 23MU 29.11.62 for storage. Delivered to Ballykelly 19.11.64 and ToC by 210 Sqn the following day and coded Z. Cat.3 damage sustained 2.2.66 was repaired by HSA CWP from 10.3.66 and on completion the aircraft was ferried out to Aden for 37 Sqn 10.66. Coded B. On disbandment of the unit WL788 was allotted to 27MU and arrived at Shawbury 12.9.67. Declared NEA the same day, the aircraft was SoC Cat.5 (Scrap) and broken up 11.68. Sold as scrap 28.3.69. | | | WL791 | MR.2 | First flown 16.6.52 and loaned to A.V. Roe & Co for display at the Paris Air Show. A/Cn 30.6.53. To 23MU 18.8.53 for storage. Allotted to MEAF 15.12.53 and issued to 38 Sqn 22.12.53. To 137MU for storage 1.3.54 until issued to 37 Sqn 17.11.54 as A. Underwent Autolycus mods at 49MU/CCMC 14.6.55 - 7.7.55, when returned to 37 Sqn. Transferred to 38 Sqn 8.7.57 and coded Q. More mods 14.2.58 - 14.4.58 (probably Phase I), after which returned to 38 Sqn until again in storage at Safi 22.12.59. Allocated to Avro Langar 25.1.60 for Phase II modernization, completed 16.2.61. To 210 Sqn 23.2.61 and coded V. Cat.3 damage repaired on site by 23MU 22.3.62 - 16.4.62 and 27.6.66 - 26.7.66. Transferred from 210 Sqn to Ballykelly Wing 13.2.67, retaining V code until despatched to 27MU Shawbury 23.5.67. Declared NEA the same day and later Cat.5(Scrap). Broken up 12.68 and sold as scrap 28.3.69. | | | WL793 | MR.2/AEW.2 | First flown 15.7.53 and A/Cn 27.8.53. To 23MU 4.9.53 and allotted to MEAF 15.12.53. On arrival at Luqa WL793 was issued to 38 Sqn 18.12.53 and was coded Y. Transferred to 137MU/Avro Langar 21.5.54 for mods, returning to 38 Sqn 8.6.54. The rear propeller spinner of No.3 engine came off, causing substantial damage to the fuselage 10.5.55. Repairs 18.5.55 - 10.6.55 were followed by major servicing at Safi/Avro Langar 2.12.55 - 16.2.56. Further modified 14.11.57 - 23.12.57, remaining on 38 Sqn strength until allocated to Avro 10.4.58 for Phase I update, completed 20.7.59. To 204 Sqn 21.7.59 and coded O. To Avro Langar 28.4.61 for Phase II modernization, completed 21.2.62. To 210 Sqn 28.2.62 and coded Z. Cat.3 damage repaired on site by 23MU 10-19.6.64, WL793 returning to 210 Sqn until allotted to HSA Langar 25.11.64 for Phase III conversion, completed 31.12.66. Re-issued to 210 Sqn 1.67 and coded S. To Ballykelly Wing 2.67 still as S. Cat.3 damage 25.8.67 repaired on site by CWP 5-22.9.67. Allocated to HSA Bitteswell 7.2.68 for mods, returning to Ballykelly 3.4.68. Further modified by HSA 10.12.69 - 6.2.70 and transferred to 210 Sqn 10.70. To 5MU 2.4.71 for a major overhaul prior to delivery to HSA Bitteswell 5.6.72 for AEW.2 conversion. First flew in revised configuration 12.72 and delivered to 5MU 12.1.73 for repainting. To Lossiemouth 12.2.73 for radar installation and ToC by 8 Sqn 23.2.73 at Kinloss. Soon named 'Ermintrude'. To Lossiemouth 1.3.73. but returned to Kinloss 9.3.73. Loaned to the MoA Air Fleet and delivered to the A&AEE Boscombe Down 16.8.73 for trials on the forward escape hatch by 'B' Squadron. Returned to 8 Sqn 29.8.73, but again in use for trials work mid-1975. Remained with 8 Sqn until despatched to HSA Bitteswell for re-sparring and major servicing 28.4.77. On air-test 16.3.78 and returned to Lossiemouth 23.3.78 and 8 Sqn 29.3.78. Withdrawn from use 1981 and transferred to the Lossiemouth Battle Damage Repair Flight with maintenance serial 8657M. Intended for use in training tradesmen in the art of patching up damaged airframes, but towed to the dump 7.81 and was completely destroyed within a year, the remains being cut up for scrap 7.82. | | | WL794 | MR.2 | First flown 7.8.53 and A/Cn 31.8.53. To 23MU 8.9.53 and allotted to MEAF 31.12.53. Issued to 38 Sqn 4.1.54 and coded T. Crashed into the sea off Gozo while exercising with a submarine 12.2.54. Declared Cat.5(Missing) the same day. | | | WL795 | MR.2/AEW.2 | First flown 17.8.53 and A/Cn 31.8.53. Delivered to 23MU 8.9.53 for storage. Sent to the CAPMF St Mawgan 30.10.53 for mods before issue to 204 Sqn 6.1.54. Uncoded. Received Cat.3 damage in ground accident 13.3.54. Repair not completed until 13.9.54, when returned to 204 Sqn. Autolycus 'special fitment' at 49MU Colerne 28.2.55, completed by CCMC St Mawgan 22.3.55, when WL795 was ferried back to Ballykelly. Transferred to 269 Sqn11.11.58 and to 210 Sqn on formation 1.12.58. Remained uncoded, and back with 204 Sqn 23.11.59 until allocated to Avro 15.12.59 for Phase I/II update, completed 6.12.60. To 38 Sqn 20.12.60 and coded T. Allotted to HSA Langar for Phase II1 modernization 21.6.66, completed 13.7.67. Issued to 205 Sqn 1.8.67 and coded G. To 5MU Kemble 2.2.71 for storage and overhaul, prior to despatch to HSA Bitteswell 4.2.72 for AEW.2 conversion, first flying as such 8.72. To 5MU 5.9.72 for painting and allotted to 8 Sqn 12.10.72. Delivered to Lossiemouth 18.10.72 for radar installation and acceptance before joining 8 Sqn at Kinloss. Named 'Rosalie'. Transferred with unit from Kinloss to Lossiemouth 14.8.73. Withdrawn 1981 and allocated for crash rescue/fire practice at St Mawgan. Flown from Lossiemouth to St Mawgan 24.11.81 and allocated maintenance serial 8753M. Not used for fire fighting, remaining in open storage until 1988, when prepared for display on the station. Reassembled during 3.89 - 4.89 and coded T for display purposes. Current. | | | WL796 | MR.2 | First flown 23.8.53 and loaned to A.V. Roe & Co for demonstration at the SBAC show, Farnborough, 9.53 with Mk 3 lifeboat mounted under the bomb bay. Delivered Woodford - Aldergrove 5.10.53 and ToC by 23MU the following day. Allotted to MEAF 8.1.54 and issued to 38 Sqn 13.1.54. Coded U. Underwent mods and major servicing at Avro Langar l2.7.55 - 17.10.55, returning to 38 Sqn 24.10.55. Transferred to 37 Sqn 8.7.57 and coded J. Badly damaged in Cat.4 flying accident 2.11.57 when tailwheel assembly broke away on take-off, but repair at Khormaksar by Avro CWP was completed 10.6.58 and WL796 returned to 37 Sqn 22.8.58 still as 1. To Avro Langar 31.7.59 for Phase I mods and retained for completion of Phase II update, completed 22.5.61. Issued to 204 Sqn 25.5.61 and coded M. Cat.3 damage incurred 24.6.63 was repaired on site by 23MU, completed 6.8.63. Returned to 204 Sqn 8.8.63. Cat.3 damage 8.7.64 repaired by 71 MU 15.7.64 5.8.64. More Cat.3 repairs by HSA CWP 18-25.1.65 and 19.10.65 - 17.11.65. Transferred from 204 to 205 Sqn 13.10.66, arriving Changi 21.10.66 and coded C. Ferried to 27MU Shawbury 11.10.67 and declared NEA 1.11.67. Sold as scrap to H.H. Bushell of London 7.10.68. | | | WL797 | MR.2 | First flown 15.9.53 and A/Cn 30.9.53, To Aldergrove with WL796 5.10.53 and ToC by 23MU the following day. Allotted to MEAF 25.11.53 and on arrival at Luqa issued to 38 Sqn 1.12.53 coded W. To 137MU/Avro Langar 15.2.55 for major servicing and mods completed 19.4.55, when transferred to 37 Sqn. Sent to 49MU Colerne 27.4.55 for Autolycus 'special fitment' installation, the mod being completed by CCMC St Mawgan. WL797 was returned to 37 Sqn 10.5.55, and possibly coded J, but was transferred back to 38 Sqn 26.7.55, probably again as W. Cat.3 damage sustained in a heavy landing at Luqa and subsequent emergency landing at Takali 21.11.55. Repaired by the Maintenance Base at Safi. and transferred to 27MU 7.8.57 for storage. To 12MU Kirkbride, but returned to 23MU 16.5.58 for STS prior to allocation to RAF North Front, Gibraltar, 19.12.58. Issued to 224 Sqn 31.12.58 and coded R. To 49MU 6.4.59 for Phase I update and on completion issued to 204 Sqn 5.11.59 as P. Cat.3 damage sustained to the scanner installation 13.9.60 was repaired by Avro CWP 29.9.60 - 23.1.61, when transferred to 210 Sqn and coded Y. To Avro Langar 20.5.63 for Phase II modernization, completed 19.2.64. To 42 Sqn two days later and possibly coded E, but reallocated to 37 Sqn 22.4.64 and coded C on arrival at Khormaksar 24.4.64. Cat.3 damage sustained 2.2.67 was repaired by HSA CWP 9.2.67 - 7.3.67. On unit disbandment 9.67 WL797 was despatched to 27MU Shawbury, arriving 12.9.67 and immediately declared NEA. Cat.5(Scrap) and sold to H.H. Bushell of London 7.10.68. | | | WL798 | MR.2 | First flown 17.9.53 and A/Cn 30.9.53. To Hawarden 6.10.53 and on to 23MU Aldergrove 9.10.53. Allotted to MEAF 15.12.53 and on arrival in Malta issued to 38 Sqn 18.12.53 and coded X. Cat.3 damage 29.7.54 was repaired by 137MU Safi 1-22.11.54, when the aircraft returned to 38 Sqn. Sent to 49MU 8.6.55 for Autolycus fitment, the installation being completed by CCMC St Mawgan before WL798 returned to Malta 24.6.55. Transferred to 137MU Safi for storage 19.12.55 prior to mods by Avro Langar 4.1.56 - 28.3.56. On completion allotted to AHQ Malta, but returned to 38 Sqn 4.4.56 still as X. Another 'special fitment' made 19.12.57 - 17.2.58 was followed by Cat.3 damage 11.3.58, which was repaired by the Maintenance Base, Safi. Returned to 38 Sqn 10.4.58, but allotted to Avro 24.10.58 for Phase I modernization. Reissued to 38 Sqn 4.59 retaining X code until returned to Avro Langar 18.5.60 for Phase II update, completed 28.4.61. Reissued yet again to 38 Sqn 20.5.61, but recoded Y. To HSA Langar 6.3.67 for Phase III conversion, completed 5.68, when despatched to 205 Sqn 16.9.68 and coded J on arrival at Changi. Returned to UK 7.70 and transferred to the Ballykelly Wing 7.7.70. Coded Z 8.70, but allotted to No. 2 SoTT Cosford 4.12.70 for use as an instructional airframe with maintenance serial 8114M. Transferred to Lossiemouth for spares recovery for 8 Sqn. | | | WL799/V | MR.2 | First flown 18.9.53 and A/Cn 5.10.53, To Hawarden 15.10.53 and on to 23MU Aldergrove 19.10.53 for storage. Issued to 38 Sqn 8.1.54 and coded V. To 49MU Colerne for Autolycus 'special fitment' 15.4.55, returning via CCMC St Mawgan, where installation completed 5.5.55. To Safi 28.9.55 and reallotted to Avro Langar 17.10.55 for special modifications, which were completed 12.55. The aircraft was destroyed in a hangar fire at Langar 22.12.55 while being prepared for return to Malta. | | | WL800 | MR.2 | First flown 1.10.53 and A/Cn 30.10.53. To 23MU 3.11.53 and allotted to MEAF 2.2.54. Arrived 137MU Safi 9.2.54 and issued to 38 Sqn 4.3.54 coded Z. To 49MU Colerne 12.2.55 for 'special fitment (Autolycus)', returning 26.2.55 via CCMC St Mawgan. Allocated to Avro Langar 10.7.56 for major servicing and mods, completed 31.10.56. Returned to 38 Sqn 7.11.56 and transferred to 37 Sqn 1.8.57, retaining Z code. Allocated to Avro 23.7.58, arriving Langar 28.7.58 for Phase I modernization, completed 8.9.59. To 42 Sqn 9.9.59 and coded A. before transfer to 224 Sqn 24.10.60 and coded B. To DH Chester (Hawarden) 11.7.61 for Phase II update, completed 13.2.62. Three days later issued to ASWDU for trials, before allocation to 203 Sqn 15.5.62 and coded E. Cat.3 damage 14.8.63 was repaired by 23MU 23.8.63, as was more Cat.3 damage sustained 3.6.64, the aircraft returning to 203 Sqn 12.6.64. To HSA Langar 12.1.66 for Phase III modernization, on completion of which WL800 was issued to 204 Sqn as J, transferring to the Ballykelly Wing 3.67 and retaining code. To HSA Bitteswell for mods 17.9.69, rejoining the Ballykelly Wing 7.11.69. Transferred to 5MU 1.10.70 for a major servicing, after which WL800 was delivered to 204 Sqn 3.2.71. To the Majunga Detachment Support Unit 29.3.71, returning to the parent unit, 204 Sqn, at Honington, still as J prior to allocation to the RAF Fire School at Catterick 19.5.72. SoC the same day and subsequently destroyed by fire. | | | WL801/T | MR.2 | First flown 10.10.53 and A/Cn 30.10.53. To Hawarden 9.11.53, going on to 23MU Aldergrove for storage the following day. Allotted to MEAF 27.1.54, arriving 137MU Safi 4.2.54. To 38 Sqn 15.2.54 and coded T. To 49MU Colerne for Autolycus fitment 24.1.55, the work being completed at CCMC St Mawgan 8.3.55, when returned to 38 Sqn. To Safi/ Avro Langar 2.3.56 - 14.5.56 for mods and major servicing and recoded W on return to 38 Sqn. Transferred to 37 Sqn 8.7.57 and coded B. Cat.3 damage in flying accident 26.11.57 repaired on site, WL801 returning to 37 Sqn 28.2.58 still as B. Allocated to Avro 19.3.58 for Phase I modification, completed 27.5.59. Issued to 38 Sqn 17.6.59 and coded Z. To DH Chester 25.6.61 for Phase II update, arriving Hawarden the following day. On completion delivered to St Mawgan 21.2.62 and ToC by 42 Sqn 26.2.62 as B. To HSA Langar 28.4.64 for Phase III modernization, completed 28.7.66. To Ballykelly and ToC by ASWDU 1.8.66 and coded A. On disbandment of unit WL801 was flown to 5MU Kemble 5.5.70 and stored. Issued to 8 Sqn 15.8.74 and used for crew training coded OI until the aircraft's fatigue life was expended. Ferried to Cosford 11.6.79 for use as an instructional airframe by No.2 SoTT with maintenance serial 8629M. Transferred to the Cosford Aerospace Museum. Scrapped at an unknown date. | | | WR954/Z | MR.2 | First flown 19.11.53 and A/Cn 10.12.53. To 23MU 14.1.54 for storage and issued to 37 Sqn 1.4.54 coded G. To 49MU Colerne for Autolycus 'special fitment' 24.3.55 - 14.4.55, the work completed at CCMC St Mawgan 16-19.4.55, when returned to Luqa via St Eval. Mods at 137MU Safi 20.4.56 - 29.5.56, WR954 remaining with 37 Sqn until allocated to Avro Langar 24.9.56 for major servicing, completed 14.2.57. Returned to 37 Sqn 23.2.57, but transferred to 38 Sqn 8.7.57 and coded Z. 'Special fitment' 24.7.58 - 1.10.58 and allocated to Avro Langar 12.6.59 for Phase I update, completed 22.6.60. To 210 Sqn 24.6.60 and coded T. Transferred to 37 Sqn 3.2.61 and coded C until departing for Avro Langar 24.10.61 for Phase II modernization, completed 26.6.62. Issued to 205 Sqn 25.7.62 and coded F until returned to the UK 11.4.66 for Phase III conversion at HSA Langar. On completion 14.6.67 WR954 was reissued to 205 Sqn and coded M. Recoded C 11.70 until ferried back to UK, arriving St Athan 17.9.71. Declared NEA 21.9.71 and SoC Cat.5(Scrap) 9.5.73. | Also served with 37 squadron. | | WR956/W | MR.2C | First flown 10.12.53 and A/Cn 18.1.54. Delivered to 23MU 17.2.54 for storage, but issued to CAPMF St Mawgan 27.4.54 for mods. Delivered to St Eval 2.7.54 and issued to 228 Sqn 6.7.54 coded L-L. Cat.3 damage sustained when tailwheel assembly collapsed 2.11.54 was repaired on site by 49MU 5.11.54 - 25.3.55, when WR956 returned to 228 Sqn. To 49MU for Autolycus 'special fitment' 26.4.55 - 25.5.55, the aircraft visiting CCMC for completion of installation. Recoded I for South American tour by unit 10.55 - 11.55. To 120 Sqn 9.10.56 and coded A until transferred to 269 Sqn 27.10.58. Uncoded. The unit was renumbered 210 Sqn 1.12.58, WR956 remaining on strength until allocated to Avro Langar 9.5.60 for Phase I/II modernization, completed 31.3.61. To 38 Sqn 13.4.61 and coded W until despatched to HSA Langar 12.11.66 for Phase III update, completed 12.1.68. Issued to the Ballykelly Wing and coded Q. On 1.4.68 WR956 crash landed at Ballykelly and was SoC Cat.5(Scrap) the same day. Dumped at Ballykelly. | | | WR961/S | MR.2C | First flown 12.2.54 and A/Cn 26.2.54. To 38MU 9.3.54 for storage. Issued to CAPMF St Mawgan 16.6.54 for mods before delivery to 228 Sqn 6.7.54. Coded L-Q. To 49MU 12.5.55 for Autolycus 'special fitment', returning to 228 Sqn via CCMC St Mawgan 1.6.55. Recoded Q in 1956. Cat.3 damage sustained in flying accident 28.9.58 repaired by Avro CWP 28.11.58 - 22.12.58. Transferred from 228 Sqn to 224 Sqn 6.1.59 and coded L. To 204 Sqn 29.4.59, uncoded. To 37 Sqn 8.2.60 and coded B until allotted to Avro 18.5.60 for Phase I/II modernization at Langar 19.5.60 - 18.5.61. To 38 Sqn 31.5.61 and coded S. To HSA Langar 30.9.66 for Phase III update and on completion delivered to the Ballykelly Wing 30.9.67 and coded U. To HSA 31.5.68 for mods, completed 27.6.68, when returned to Ballykelly still as U. To HSA Bitteswell 7.11.69 for more mods. Retained code U on transfer to 204 Sqn l0.70. To the Majunga Detachment Support Unit 31.3.71 until returned to the UK and placed in storage at 5MU Kemble 19.4.72. Declared NEA 23.9.77 and SoC Cat.5(Scrap) 1.2.78. | | | WR963 | MR.2/AEW.2 | First flown 11.3.54 and A/Cn 31.3.54. To 38MU 8.4.54 for storage. Allocated to 224 Sqn, but probably ferried from Llandow to St Mawgan 22.7.54. Mods completed by CCMC 27.7.54 - 5.10.54 when delivered to Gibraltar and issued to 224 Sqn the following day. Coded B-M. 'Special fitment' installations made l0.2.55 and 15.6.55 - 6.7.55. To 49MU Colerne 28.9.56 for mods, completed 11.10.56, when WR963 returned to Gibraltar. Recoded M in 1956. More mods 19.10.57 - 11.11.57. To Avro 9.3.59 for Phase I modernization, completed 18.2.60. To 210 Sqn 23.2.60 and coded Z. Allocated to DH Chester (Hawarden) 15.3.61 for Phase II update, completed 16.11.61. Delivered to 38 Sqn 23.11.61 and coded X. To 205 Sqn 14.1.66 and coded A. Allocated to HSA Langar 7.66 for Phase III modification, completed 19.7.67. Returned to 205 Sqn 1.8.67 and coded H. To 5 MU 17.12.70 for storage until delivered to HSA Bitteswell 30.6.71 for AEW.2 conversion. To 5MU 2.6.72 for repainting. To Lossiemouth 18.7.72 for radar installation and ToC 8 Sqn the following day. To Kinloss 1.8.72, where named 'Ermintrude' . Back to Lossiemouth with unit 16.8.73. Renamed 'Parsley'. To 60MU for mods 10 - 19.3.75 and HSA Bitteswell 1.3.76 for major servicing and wing re-spar. Returned to 8 Sqn 13.5.77. Cat.3 damage sustained 10.8.79 repaired by HSA CWP, WR963 returning to 8 Sqn charge 29.10.79. Currently with Air Atlantique at Bagington Airport, Coventry - (14,957hrs at 9.3.89). | | | WR964 | MR.2/T.2 | First flown 18.3.54 and retained by Avro for fitment of enlarged oil coolers. A/Cn 31.3.54, when loaned to C(A) and was despatched to the A&AEE Boscombe Down 14.4.54 for tropical cooling trials at Khartoum, departing Boscombe 21.4.54. Problems encountered with the trials, which were abandoned 20.5.54, the aircraft returning to Boscombe Down 1.6.54. Despatched to Woodford 9.6.54 for further manufacturer's trials on engine cooling and engine exhaust pipes. Aircraft declared surplus to MoS needs 19.10.54 and delivered to 38MU 16.11.54 for storage. To 49MU 13.6.55 for Autolycus 'special fitment', completed 30.6.55, when returned to 38MU for further storage, during which it received enlarged fuselage serials and Rolls-Royce CWP worked on the aircraft. Allocated to MEAF 9.3.56 and on arrival at Luqa issued to 38 Sqn 15.3.56 and coded V. 'Special fitment' at 49MU Colerne commenced 26.9.57, followed by Cat.3 repairs 18.10.57 - 2.12.57. Back to 38 Sqn until 31.3.59, when transferred to 37 Sqn and coded F. To Avro 23.7.59 for Phase I/II modernization, completed 3.3.61. WR964 was issued to 204 Sqn 8.3.61 and coded Q. Cat.3 damage 19.8.63 was repaired by 23MU, completed 29.3.63, the aircraft returning to 204 Sqn 3.9.63. Allotted to HSA Langar 10.2.67 for T.2 modification. On completion issued to MOTU 23.5.68 and coded Z. Cat.3 damage 9.10.69 repaired by 71 MU 23.10.69 - 17.1.70. Despatched to St Athan 29.7.70 and declared NEA 27.11.70. SoC Cat.5(Scrap) 15.11.71. | Transferred from 38 squadron 31.03.59. | | WR965 | MR.2/AEW.2 | First flown 7.4.54 and A/Cn 30.4.54. To Kinloss 11.5.54 and on to 23MU Aldergrove 13.5.54 for storage. Allocated to MEAF 3.11.54 and on delivery issued to 37 Sqn 5.11.54 coded B. To 49MU Colerne for Autolycus 'special fitment' 9-23.7.55, the mod being completed by CCMC St Mawgan before WR965 returned to 37 Sqn. To Safi/Avro Langar for major servicing 13.6.55, returning to 37 Sqn 4.11.56. Transferred to 38 Sqn 8.7.57 and coded S. To 49MU for 'special fitment' 5.6.58 - 23.7.58, but remained on 38 Sqn charge until allocated to Avro Langar 23.5.59 for Phase I modification, completed 31.3.60. To 224 Sqn 6.4.60 and coded T. To DH Chester 28.8.61 for Phase II update, completed 29.3.62. Immediately despatched to the A&AEE Boscombe Down on loan to the MoA for trials on redesigned flame-float launching chute (mod 1013). Released 5.4.62 and allocated to Ballykelly, WR965 being ToC by 203 Sqn 9.4.62 and coded K. Cat.3 damage 9.6.64 repaired by 23MU and aircraft returned to 203 Sqn 23.6.64. Again sustained Cat.3 damage 12.8.65, repaired by 60MU 20.8.65 - 21.9.65, and WR965 was back with 203 Sqn the following day. To HSA Langar 17.3.66 for Phase III modernization, and on completion despatched to 205 Sqn, arriving 24.5.67, when coded L. Recoded E specially for a formation display 8.11.68 to record the retirement of WL759, the last Phase II aircraft on the Squadron. WR965 was also soon to leave Singapore, transferring to the Ballykelly Wing 2.12.68, when recoded Q. Allocated to HSA 18.12.68 and fitted with revised tailplane de-icing panels. Loaned to MinTech 24.3.69 for flight trials from Bitteswell to determine optimum flow rate, completed 9.5.69. Returned to Ballykelly Wing 15.5.69, transferring to 204 Sqn 10.70 still as Q. To 5MU Kemble 2.4.71 for storage. Delivered to HSA Bitteswell for AEW.2 conversion 28.4.72. First flight in revised configuration 15.11.72. To 5MU 28.11.72 for repainting before delivery to Lossiemouth 18.1.73 for radar installation. To Kinloss 31.1.73, returning to Lossiemouth 17.8.73 with unit. Named 'Dill'. To HSA 16.4.74 (after standing in open storage 1.74 - 4.74) for refurbishing. Returned to 8 Sqn, but to 60MU on 29.4.75 for mods and to HSA Bitteswell 1.9.76 for major servicing and re-sparring (2nd in contract). First flight after mods 12.10.77, WR965 returning to Lossiemouth 19.10.77 and 8 Sqn charge two days later. Crashed 30.4.90 near Northton, South Harris, Outer Hebrides. Ten killed. | Transferred from 37 Sqn on 08.07.57 | | WR967 | MR.2/T.2 | First flown 17.5.54 and A/Cn 31.5.54. To 23MU 16.6.54 and stored until issued to the JASS Flight 6.1.55 and coded G-B. To 49MU for Autolycus 'special fitment' 24.3.55 - 21.4.55. when it was ferried to CCMC St Mawgan for completion of modification. To Ballykelly 22.4.55 on return to JASS Flight. Cat.3 damage 7.2.56 sustained when the tail assembly and rear fuselage buckled on landing following the collapse of the tailwheels. Repaired by 278MU 9.2.56 - 29.6.56 on site. Transferred to 42 Sqn 2.3.57 and coded F. Further Cat.3 damage 8.5.57 repaired by Avro CWP 10.5.57 - 27.6.57, WR967 returning to 42 Sqn 1.7.57. Allotted to 49MU I 3.3.59 for Phase I modernization, completed 11.6.59. Reissued to 42 Sqn 9.7.59, retaining code F. To Avro Langar 7.10.60 for Phase II update and on completion 4.7.61 was delivered to 38 Sqn and coded Z. Loaned to 205 Sqn 20.3.65 - 2.9.65 while WL786 was Cat.3, returning to 38 Sqn 4.9.65. Loaned to 224 Sqn 20.12.65 and on return to 38 Sqn 22.6.66 was recoded T until allocated to HSA Langar 22.3.67 for T.2 modification. On completion despatched to the Ballykelly Wing 5.9.68, but sent to HSA Bitteswell 21.11.68 for mods. Returned to Ballykelly 6.1.69, but transferred to MOTU 28.4.69 and coded Q. Cat.3 damage 19.5.69 was repaired by 71 MU 22.5.69 - 31.7.69. Again Cat.3 24.3.70, but returned to MOTU 29.4.70 until ferried to 5MU 10.7.70. To 210 Sqn 6.11.70 and coded Z, remaining with unit at Sharjah until allocated to the RAF Fire School at Catterick. Returned to UK 11.71, but allotment cancelled and WR967 was delivered to Kinloss 23.11.71 in preparation for the reforming of 8 Sqn 1.1.72, still coded Z. To Lossiemouth 28.3.72, returning to Kinloss 10.5.72 and named 'Zebedee'. Used for crew training until damaged in a flying accident 7.9.72. Grounded and in 6.74 it was decided to convert the fuselage of WR967 into an AEW training aid, work by Marconi Elliott Avionic Systems Ltd starting 7.74. The wings and tail unit were removed and the fuselage mounted on blocks, the 'simulator' being handed over to the RAF 14.8.75, when it was named 'Dodo' and the maintenance serial 8398M was issued. | |
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No. 39 Squadron
39 squadron exchanged its Meteors for Canberra PR.3s some time after the Suez Campaign in 1956, and took up residence at RAF Luqa, Malta shortly thereafter. In 1965, the squadron changed its PR.3s for PR.9s, the last PR.9 leaving Malta in 1976.
The following table lists a number of PR.3s that were in Malta in August 1962. These were taken from an article which can be read in the page, “Two weeks in Malta”.
| SERIAL | VARIANT | NOTES | | WE135/P | PR.3 | d/d 05/11/1952, to Catterick Fire School 15/11/1972 and burnt. | | WE137/A | PR.3 | Also seen were a/c coded F & J. Finished in overall silver. Tip tanks carried yellow and black arrow head on the tip tanks, in the centre of which was the black number 39. d/d 03/12/1952, to Catterick Fire School 15/11/1972, perished during 1974. | | WE138/B | PR.3 | d/d 21/03/53, sold as scrap 16/12/67 at Lyneham to B A Taylor of West Bromwich, Birmingham. | | WE139/C | PR.3 | d/d 03/02/53. | | WE144/D | PR.3 | d/d 19/05/1953, to Rudloe Manor 16/06/1972, since scr. | | WE168/E | PR.3 | To 8049M, to Manston 15/05/1969. | | WE169/G | PR.3 | d/d 18/12/1953, to Manston Fire School 15/05/1969, since perished. | | WE174/H | PR.3 | d/d 14/12/1953, to Manston Fire School 15/05/1969, since perished. | | WF924/K | PR.3 | d/d 03/12/1953, to Tangmere fire dump 12/05/1969, since perished. | | WF927/0 | PR.3 | d/d 24/02/1954, s.o.c. 16/05/1969 to Cottesmore fire dump, since perished. | | _____/F | PR.3 | | | _____/J | PR.3 | | | WT481/L | T.4 | Finished in colours similar to PR.3s, but with the addition of yellow training bands. Aircraft written off on 02/06/65. |
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No. 203 Squadron – Shackletons
With the Soviet Navy increasing its presence, especially in the Mediterranean, a permanent maritime patrol presence was needed, and so, four Avro Shackleton Mk.3/3 of 203 Squadron, RAF Ballykelly, North Ireland were ferried via Gibraltar to Malta in January 1969, being initially based at Hal-Far. The squadron was declared operational on 1 February, and continued using the Shackletons until replaced by the more capable Nimrod MR.1, which started arriving in October 1971. By this time, the squadron had already transferred its base to Luqa.
| SERIAL | VARIANT | HISTORY | NOTES | | WR974/H | MR.3/3 | MR 3 First flown 1.5.57 and A/Cn 24.5.57. Released for C(A) development work on 12 month free loan 31.5.57 and prepared by Avro Woodford/ Langar for tropical and winter trials. Delivered to the A&AEE Boscombe Down from Langar 5.7.57 and flown out of Idris, Libya, for armament trials in tropical conditions 7.57 - 8.57. On return to Boscombe transferred to 49MU 27.8.57 for additional 'winterization' by Avro CWP. Back to Boscombe Down 20.9.57 and despatched to CEPE Canada 8.10.57. Damaged 19.11.57 the aircraft was repaired in Canada and the trials completed. WR974 was delivered from Boscombe to 49MU Colerne 16.4.58 and modified to full Phase I standard by Avro CWP against Contract 6/Acft/15025/CB6(a). Allotted to 23MU 27.8.58 and ferried to Aldergrove 25.9.58. Issued to 203 Sqn 12.58 and coded ‘F’. Badly damaged landing at Dartmouth, Nova Scotia, 18.8.59, WR974 was repaired on site by Fairey Aviation of Canada 11.59 - 6.60 and returned briefly to 203 Sqn before delivery to Avro Langar for Phase II update. Retained on completion and transferred to the MoA Air Fleet for use as a Phase III TI aircraft against Contract KD/L/081 and 082/CB6(a). Suffered damage in hangar accident 20.4.64. Allocated to the A&AEE for radio and navigation trials 16.7.64 and delivered to Boscombe Down 7.9.64. Carried out winterization tests on equipment after which returned to HSA Langar for pre-service preparation 3.3.65. Reallocated to the A&AEE 17.5.65 for further tropical trials of Phase III navigation equipment and flight tests of the Griffon 58 equipped with modified oil coolers. Arrived at Boscombe 21.6.65 and returned to Langar 10.9.65 for more Tl work, including stand-by bomb bay heating, photographic electronic flash unit and sonobuoy homer tests against Contract KD/L/125/ CB6(a). To Boscombe Down 23.3.66 for acceptance trials on the new equipment, on completion of which WR974 was despatched to ASWDU at Ballykelly 20 6.66. To HSA Bitteswell 7.66 for modification transferring to Langar until allotted on loan to MinTech 17.2.67 for further evaluation of sonobuoy homer equipment. To the RAE Farnborough 12.5.67 for tests by the Radio Department. Transferred to the A&AEE Boscombe Down for armament trials to ASR 816 12.7.67. WR974 returned to Ballykelly for more ASWDU trials 8.2.68, departing to HSA Bitteswell 5.4.68 for preparation to current service Phase 111 standard, completed 27.8.68. To 203 Sqn coded ‘H’. Loaned to 42 Sqn 9.68 - 1.69, returning to 203 Sqn until 1.70, when sent to Bitteswell for mods 1.70 - 3.70. Back with 203 Sqn 26.3.70, but transferred to the Kinloss Wing 6.4.70 and coded K. To Cosford 11.12.70 for No.2 SoTT as an instructional airframe with maintenance serial 8117M. Offered for sale 1988 and purchased by P. Vallance of Charlwood, West Sussex. | One of 5 that initially formed 203. Taken over from a 42 Squadron detachment that was at Luqa, to bring 203 up to strength. Replaced by WR980/S. | | WR980/S | MR.3/3 | First flown 13.11.57 and A/Cn 25.11.57. Ferried to 23MU the following day and issued to 220 Sqn 1.58 as ‘O’, markings retained when the unit was renumbered 201 Sqn 1.10.58. Despatched to Avro Langar 3.59 for Phase I modernization, completed 12.59, when WR980 was delivered to 206 Sqn and became ‘A’. To Avro Langar 11.61 for Phase II update and repairs, completed 3.63, when the aircraft returned to 206 Sqn and was recoded D. Transferred to 201 Sqn as ‘L’ 3.64 and 120 Sqn 5.65, but allotted to HSA Langar 6.65 for Phase III (Viper) modifications, completed 3.66. To 206 Sqn 3.66 as S, a code retained with the Kinloss Wing from 2.67. Modified at HSA Bitteswell 8.69 - 9.69, WR980 returned to Kinloss until put up for disposal and flown to 5MU Kemble 3.4.70. To the RAF Fire Fighting and Safety School, Catterick, 26.11.70 and SoC Cat.5 (Scrap). | Scrapped in UK late 1970. | | WR986/G | MR.3/3 | A/Cn 30.4.58 and delivered to 23MU Aldergrove 13.5.58. Issued to 206 Sqn 6.58 and coded ‘F’. Sent to Avro Langar 10.59 for Phase I modification completed 12.59, when despatched to 203 Sqn and coded ‘K’. A visit to 49MU Coleme for mods 7.60 and a Cat.3 damage repair on site 5.61 interrupted service with 203 Sqn. In 10.61 WR986 was transferred to 201 Sqn and coded M. Allocated to Avro Langar 7.62 for Phase II update, completed 9.63. To 120 Sqn as E 9.63 until 10.65, when despatched to Avro Langar for Phase III modernization. Completed 9.66, when issued to 203 Sqn and coded ‘G’. Underwent mods at HSA Bitteswell 7.69 - 11.69, but otherwise remained with 203 Sqn until written off Cat.5 (Scrap) 1.9.71 following the discovery of severe damage due to rat infestation. The aircraft was broken up at Safi, Malta. | One of 5 that initially formed 203. | | WR987/D | MR.3/3 | A/Cn 23.5.58 and delivered to 23MU 28.5.58. Issued to 220 Sqn 6.58 and coded ‘R’, retained when unit renumbered 201 Sqn 1.10.58. Transferred to 120 Sqn 121.58 and coded ‘G’. Despatched to 49MU Colerne 6.60 for Phase I modification and repair by Avro CWP, completed 7.61, when returned to 120 Sqn still as ‘G’. To Avro Langar 2.62 for update to Phase II standard, completed 4.62, when again back to 120 Sqn, but as ‘C’. To HSA Langar 9.65 for Phase III (Viper) conversion, completed 12.66. To 203 Sqn and coded D. To HSA Bitteswell for mods/overhaul 5.68 - 8.68 and 10.69 - 12.69, remaining with 203 Sqn until flown to 5MU Kemble 12.1.72 for open storage. Transferred to Honington 17.6.72 for fire practice. SoC Cat.5 (Scrap). | One of 4 last remaining Shackleton MR.3/3s in RAF service. Left Luqa for RAF Kemble on 12.01.72. | | WR988/E | MR.3/3 | A/Cn 28.5.58 and delivered to 23MU 9.6.58. Issued to 120 Sqn 7.58 and coded ‘C’. To Avro 10.59 for mods/repair, returning to 120 Sqn 6.60, but despatched to 49MU Coleme 8.60 for Phase I modification by Avro CWP. On completion 8.61 delivered to 203 Sqn and coded ‘J’. Allotted to Avro 7.62 for Phase II update, completed 10.62, when transferred to 201 Sqn and coded ‘K’. To HSA Langar 6.65 for Phase III (Viper) modernization, completed 6.66. To 203 Sqn and coded ‘E’. To HSA for mods 1.69 - 7.69 and loaned to 42 Sqn briefly during summer 1970, but otherwise WR988 remained with 203 Sqn until flown to 5MU Kemble 1.72 for open storage. Ferried to Macrihanish 25.4.72 for fire-fighting practice and SoC Cat.5 (Scrap) on arrival. | One of 5 that initially formed 203. Also was one of 4 last remaining Shackleton MR.3/3s in RAF service. Left Luqa for RAF Kemble on 12.01.72. | | WR989/K | MR.3/3 | A/Cn 25.6.58 and delivered to 23MU 3.7.58. Prepared for service and issued to 120 Sqn 8.58 coded ‘B’. Suffered Cat.3 damage, which was repaired by Avro CWP 11.59 - 1.60. To 49MU Coleme 6.60 for Phase I modification by Avro CWP, returning to 120 Sqn 8.61. Allotted to Avro 10.61 for Phase II update, completed 12.61, when returned to 120 Sqn still as ‘B’. Despatched to Avro Langar 12.63 for modification to Phase III standard, completed 6.65. To 201 Sqn and coded K. Transferred to 120 Sqn 11.66 for a month before despatch to HSA Woodford for Viper installation 12.66 - 4.67. Returned to Kinloss on Wing strength still as ‘K’, but spent 5.67 at 60MU Leconfield for radar altimeter installation and on 8.4.68 was loaned to MinTech for low-temperature/high-humidity flight trials on the Viper installation at the A&AEE Boscombe Down (flying in calibrated water spray produced by the Canberra WV787 'tanker'). Returned to Kinloss Wing 3.7.68 and visited HSA Bitteswell 8.68 - 10.68 and 8.69 - 10.69 before transfer to 203 Sqn 3.70. Apparently retained ‘K’ as code. To Bitteswell 1.71 - 2.71 for mods, returning to 203 Sqn until ferried to 5MU Kemble for open storage 12.1.72. Despatched to Leeming 14.7.72 for fire fighting practice and SoC Cat.5 (Scrap) on arrival. | One of 4 last remaining Shackleton MR.3/3s in RAF service. Left Luqa for RAF Kemble on 12.01.72. | | XF700/F | MR.3/3 | First flown 9.7.58 and A/Cn 11.8.58. Delivered to 23MU 18.8.58 and issued to 120 Sqn 9.58 coded ‘A’. To 49MU 4.60 for Phase I mods and repair by Avro CWP, completed 4.61. Returned to 120 Sqn as ‘A’. To Avro 10.61 for Phase II update, returning to 120 Sqn 7.62 still as ‘A’. Allocated to HSA Langar 8.63 for Phase III modernization, completed 3.65, when delivered to 206 Sqn and coded ‘U’. Transferred to 201 Sqn as ‘M’ 5.66 and allotted to HSA Woodford for Viper installation 12.66. On completion 4.67 XF700 returned to the Kinloss Wing, retaining the ‘M’ code and apart from mods at HSA Bitteswell 5.68 - 6.68, the aircraft remained on Kinloss charge until 1.69, when transferred to 203 Sqn and coded ‘F’. Despatched to Nicosia, Cyprus, 26.10.71 for fire-fighting training and SoC Cat.5 (Scrap) on arrival. Scrapped 1.72 after spares recovery by 103MU. | One of 5 that initially formed 203. | | XF708/C | MR.3/3 | Delivered direct to 201 Sqn 1.3.59 already Phase I modified. Coded ‘O’ on arrival. Allocated to Avro Langar 5.62 for Phase II update, completed 8.63, when issued to 120 Sqn as ‘A’. To HSA Langar 11.65 for Phase III modernization and used for Tl of static vent cross-connector (to eliminate effects of yaw on pressure instruments) and Mods 1349, 1368 and 1403 from 19.10.66 to 6.2.67, when despatched to 203 Sqn and coded ‘C’. Apart from mods by HSA the aircraft remained with 203 Sqn. transferring from Ballykelly to Luqa with the unit 29.1.69, until 1.72 when flown to 5MU Kemble for storage. To Duxford 23.8.72 as a 'flying exhibit' for the Imperial War Museum. In practice XF708 was grounded on arrival. Current. | One of 5 that initially formed 203. Also one of 4 last remaining Shackleton MR.3/3s in RAF service. Left Luqa for RAF Kemble on 12.01.72. |
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The Nimrods arrive.
Colin Pomeroy, who was a crew member with No. 203, describes the squadron’s time on these Islands. He has written a book No. 203 Squadron – The Malta Years. Anyone interested in purchasing a copy can e-mail me and I’ll pass on your details to Mr. Pomeroy.
Not mentioned in the account below, but listed in his book, is that, for several months after their return, the Nimrods were stationed in Park 4, the site of today’s Malta International Airshow. However, intelligence reports revealed a terrorist plot to attack the Nimrods and destroy as many as possible. The aircraft were then moved to park 2, were they would remain until the squadron’s disbandment in December 1977.
The following account was written for the Malta Aviation Sciety’s newsletter, and is being reproduced with permission of both the MAS and Mr. Pomeroy himself.
As the 1960s drew to a close, the Cold War was intensifying, and nowhere more so than in the Mediterranean, where the Soviet Navy’s surface and sub-surfaced presence was particularly strong. Thus, shortly after three of 203 Sqn’s Shackletons Mk.III aircraft had returned to RAF Ballykelly, in Northern Ireland, from a detachment to RAF Luqa to participate in exercise Eden Apple, Ballykelly Operation Order 12/68 was issued detailing the arrangements for the transfer of the squadron to Hal-Far (where the squadron was initially based until moving to Luqa).
During January 1969, four Shackletons transited to Malta, via Gibraltar: WR986, WR988, XF700 and XF708, whilst WR974 was taken over from a 42 Squadron detachment to the island. With five aircraft on line, the squadron was declared operational on 1 February, and until the last of these venerable aircraft were returned to the UK in January 1972, a routine of maritime patrols, operational detachments to other bases such as RAF Akrotiri and Masirah (where in the summer of 1971 search and rescue cover was provided for transiting Lightning fighters) was established. Activity was always at a high level, and as an example, the squadron flew over 3,600 hours in 1970.
In October 1971, the first of two Nimrod MR.1s (XV257 and XV258) arrived at Luqa, the squadron being at its initial full ‘maritime 4-jet’ strength by the end of December.
No sooner had the winds of change ceased to blow on 203, and life begun to settle into a routine, that political considerations* necessitated the move of the Nimrods to USNAS Sigonella in Sicily. It was from here that the aircraft continued their routine patrols across the waters of the Mediterranean, but with detachments necessary back to RAF St. Mawgan for servicing beyond the scope of the Sicilian facilities, and to Akrotiri for rest and recreation.
On 20 March, a Nimrod from Sigonella flew low over Luqa as the RAF ensign was lowered for what was then thought to be the last time, but happily, events proved otherwise, and during the period 21-29 April, the squadron re-deployed to Luqa, supported by 25 Hercules and 19 Belfast sorties.
The waters of the Mediterranean basin are far from ideal for searching for submarines by sonobouy, due to their varying salinity content, surface heating and the inflowing of fresh water from the surrounding land masses. So most initial submarine detections obtained by Nimrods were by radar, ESM or visual means, with sonics and magnetic anomaly detectors (MAD) information being more normally used to refine a datum. Many a Soviet nuclear-powered or conventional submarine found itself added to the NATO intelligence plot when caught napping by 203 Sqn crews. As far as surface combatants and support vessels were concerned – which tended to spend much of their time at well known anchorages such as Hammamet, Kithera and Lampedusa – photographic, visual and electronic intelligence gathering was considered to be the bread and butter side of airborne life for the squadron’s crews.
In April 1973, Flt Lt Colin Hughes’ crew beat all comers from the UK based maritime patrol squadrons to win the Aird-Whyte ASW competition, and then went on to beat the Old Commonwealth teams in the international Fincastle trophy competition held that autumn in Australia – a first for a non-UK based crew!
Sadly, all good things come to an end, and on the last day of 1977, the squadron disbanded at Luqa, and an era, appreciated both professionally and socially by RAF and Maltese citizens alike, came to an end. The name of 203 Squadron, though, has not passed away, for in October 1996, the Sea King OCU at St. Mawgan was renamed No. 203 (Reserve) Squadron, thus returning one of the oldest RNAS/RAF squadrons to active service. It could be argued that 203 Squadron is the oldest British military flying unit . . . but that’s another story!
* The author is here referring to the 1971 general election, which saw the return to power of the Malta Labour Party. It immediately expelled all NATO forces and the US Navy’s 6th Fleet, and asked that British Forces leave Malta by 1 January 1972. The deadline was later extended to 15 January, and then 31 March. An agreement reached in late March saw the British remaining in Malta until 31 March 1979.
| AIRCRAFT | SERIAL | HISTORY | NOTES | | MR.1 | XV228 | d/d Woodford 03/11/2005 for MRA4 conversion. | | | MR.1 | XV231 | | | | MR.1 | XV232 | | | | MR.1 | XV240 | | First to be seen with squadron badge on 16.11.73. | | MR.1 | XV242 | To MRA4 PA-3/ZJ517. | | | MR.1 | XV250 | | The aircraft was the winner of the 1973 Fincastle trophy held in Australia. The aircraft sported a red kangaroo badge for some time. | | MR.1 | XV253 | To 9118M, to MRA.4 PA-8/ZJ521. | | | MR.1 | XV257 | w/o 03/06/1984, scr. Woodford 92. | | | MR.1 | XV258 | To MRA4 PA-5/ZJ515. | | | MR.1 | XV260 | | | | MR.1 | XV261 | To 8968M, scr. Lyneham 1995. | | | MR.1 | XV263 | To 8967M. | |
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Salerno Flight, Royal Marines Three Royal Marines Westland Gazelle AH.1s were stationed at St. George’s Barracks. These left Malta in mid-April 1977 on board RFA Sir Percival.
| AIRCRAFT | SERIAL | HISTORY | NOTES | | Westland Gazelle AH.1 | XX377/E | f/f 26/09/1974, d/d 08/10/1974, w/o 06/06/1982. | | | Westland Gazelle AH.1 | XX381/F | f/f 12/11/1974, d/d 04/12/1974. | | | Westland Gazelle AH.1 | XX383/G | f/f 29/11/1974, d/d 19/12/1974. | |
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