Avro Vulcan B.2 XM598

Strategic bomber By: Avro / Hawker Siddeley Aviation Origin: United Kingdom First Flight: 1952 Part of: Avro Vulcan series

About This Aircraft

The Avro Vulcan XM598 is a preserved Cold War strategic bomber that served with distinction as part of the Royal Air Force's V-bomber force. Built in 1963, this delta-wing aircraft represents the pinnacle of 1950s British aerospace engineering and played a crucial role in maintaining the UK's nuclear deterrent during the height of the Cold War. XM598 was powered by four Rolls-Royce Olympus 201 turbojet engines and featured the distinctive triangular wing design that became the hallmark of the Vulcan fleet. The aircraft's advanced delta configuration provided exceptional high-altitude performance and gave it the capability to penetrate sophisticated air defence systems of the era. During its operational service, XM598 served with several RAF squadrons and was involved in numerous training exercises and strategic readiness missions. The aircraft was equipped to carry both nuclear weapons and conventional ordnance, making it a versatile component of Britain's strategic bomber force throughout the 1960s, 1970s, and into the 1980s. Following its retirement from active service, XM598 was preserved and is currently maintained as a static display. The aircraft has undergone restoration work to preserve its historical significance and continues to serve an important educational role, helping visitors understand the technological achievements and strategic importance of the V-bomber programme. XM598 stands as a remarkable example of British Cold War aviation heritage, representing the sophisticated engineering solutions developed to meet the strategic challenges of the nuclear age. The aircraft remains a popular attraction for aviation enthusiasts and serves as a tangible link to one of the most significant periods in RAF history and Britain's defence strategy.

Specifications

Engine: Four Bristol Siddeley Olympus 201 turbojets, 17,000 lbf (76 kN) thrust each, or Olympus 301, 20,000 lbf (89 kN) thrust each | Wingspan: 111 ft (33.83 m) | Length: 99 ft 11 in (30.45 m) without probe / 105 ft 6 in (32.16 m) with probe | Height: 27 ft 1 in (8.26 m) | Max Takeoff Weight: Approx. 204,000 lb (92,533 kg) to 250,000 lb (113,398 kg) | Max Speed: Mach 0.93 (approx. 645 mph / 1,038 km/h) at altitude | Range: 4,603 miles (7,408 km) | Service Ceiling: Up to 60,000 ft (18,000 m) | Armament: 1 x Blue Steel standoff missile or 1 x free-fall nuclear bomb or 21 x 1,000 lb (454 kg) conventional bombs

Museums Featuring This Aircraft

Exhibits can change. To avoid disappointment, before visiting, please check the museum website for up-to-date exhibit listings.

Royal Air Force Museum Midlands (RAF Cosford) (Shropshire)
Static Display

Avro Vulcan B.2 XM598

About This Aircraft

Specifications

Museums Featuring This Aircraft

Further Reading

Avro Type 698 Vulcan: The Secrets Behind Its Design and Development

Avro Vulcan B.Mk2: A Place in History, 1960–84

Avro Vulcan Manual: 1952 Onwards (Owners' Workshop Manual)

Operation Black Buck 1982: The Vulcans' extraordinary Falklands War raids: 37 (Air Campaign)

The Avro Vulcan: A History

The Vulcan Story

V Bombers: Vulcan, Valiant & Victor

Vulcan 607

Vulcan Boys: From the Cold War to the Falklands

Knowledge Base Articles

Vulcan B.1 vs B.2: Key Differences

About This Aircraft

Specifications

Museums Featuring This Aircraft

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Further Reading

Knowledge Base Articles