Avro Vulcan B.2A XM575

About This Aircraft

The Avro Vulcan XM575 is a preserved Cold War strategic bomber with a distinguished service history, currently displayed at the East Midlands Aeropark near Nottingham. This B.2A variant served with some of the RAF's most famous squadrons and participated in the historic Falklands Victory flypast over London.

XM575 was delivered to the RAF on 21st May 1963 and was allocated to the legendary No. 617 Squadron (the "Dambusters") in May 1963, which then became part of the Scampton Wing. The aircraft holds the distinction of being the second Vulcan B.2 Blue Steel aircraft to be fitted with the upgraded Olympus 301 engines, representing the most powerful variant of the Vulcan's powerplant.

During its operational career, XM575 underwent several significant role changes that reflected the evolving strategic requirements of the Cold War. The aircraft was initially equipped to carry the Blue Steel nuclear standoff missile, but was converted to free-fall mode in autumn 1969 and returned to squadron service. During 1970, XM575 was stationed at RAF Waddington before returning to No. 617 Squadron at RAF Scampton.

The aircraft continued to serve with multiple elite squadrons throughout the 1970s. In March 1974, XM575 returned to RAF Waddington and was allocated to No. 101 Squadron in May 1975, then transferred to No. 50 Squadron. In June 1978, the aircraft made its final squadron move when it was allocated to No. 44 (Rhodesia) Squadron, one of the RAF's most prestigious bombing units.

XM575's most publicly visible moment came on 28th October 1982, when it participated in the Falklands Victory flypast over London. This ceremonial flight celebrated the successful conclusion of the Falklands War and marked one of the final public appearances of the Vulcan fleet before retirement. The flypast was a significant moment for both XM575 and the Vulcan programme, representing the aircraft's contribution to Britain's strategic capabilities and its role in the final operational chapter of the V-Force.

The aircraft made its final flight on 28th January 1983, when it was delivered to East Midlands Airport for preservation. This flight marked the end of nearly two decades of distinguished service with the RAF's most elite bomber squadrons.

After retirement, XM575 was initially kept in running condition at the East Midlands Aeropark, allowing visitors to experience the aircraft's systems in operation. However, engine running ceased when the Aeropark moved sites due to several houses being built in close proximity, making noise from engine runs incompatible with the surrounding residential area.

Despite the end of its running operations, XM575 remains in relatively good condition thanks to the dedicated volunteers at the East Midlands Aeropark. The aircraft is still fairly complete and received a comprehensive repaint approximately ten years ago, which continues to hold up well. The volunteers work to maintain the aircraft's appearance and structural integrity, ensuring it remains an impressive example of Cold War aviation technology.

There was once consideration given to moving XM575 to Bruntingthorpe Aerodrome to join the collection there, with plans even drawn up to fly the aircraft from East Midlands Airport. However, these plans never materialised as funding ran out before the necessary servicing could be completed.

Today, XM575 stands as an important memorial to the men and women who operated these remarkable aircraft during the height of the Cold War. The aircraft represents the technological sophistication of Britain's nuclear deterrent force and serves as a tangible link to a critical period in RAF history when the Vulcan force maintained continuous readiness to defend the nation's interests.

XM575's preservation at East Midlands Aeropark ensures that future generations can appreciate the engineering excellence of the Vulcan programme and understand the vital role these aircraft played in maintaining peace through strength during one of the most tense periods of the twentieth century.