About This Aircraft
The Short SB.5, WG768, was a British experimental research aircraft designed and built in the early 1950s. Its specific purpose was to investigate the low-speed flight characteristics of different swept-wing and tailplane configurations for the development of the English Electric P.1, which would become the supersonic Lightning fighter. The SB.5 was ingeniously designed with variable geometry; the sweep angle of its wings could be adjusted on the ground to 50, 60, or 69 degrees. The position of its tailplane could also be changed from high on the fin to low on the fuselage. Powered by a single Rolls-Royce Derwent turbojet, the single SB.5 built provided crucial data that validated the design of the Lightning.
Museums Featuring This Aircraft
Exhibits can change. To avoid disappointment, before visiting, please check the museum website for up-to-date exhibit listings.
Currently, we don't have specific museum listings for the Short SB.5 (research aircraft). Many museums may feature this aircraft as part of broader collections.