Writer
The Tornado was jointly developed by the United Kingdom, Germany and Italy, and first flew on the 4th August 1974. A total of 992 Aircraft were built with productions finishing in 1999. As well as the three main operators, Tornado's were also bought by RSAF (Royal Saudi Air Force) and are still in service, now. For many years Tornado crews were trained at the Tri-national unit at RAF Cottesmore, but when this unit was disbanded RAF training was moved to RAF Lossiemouth with number XV (reserve) Squadron, who still operate Tornado GR4's today. One RAF Squadron still operates the F-3 air defence version, being 111 Squadron at RAF Leuchars in Scotland.
All other Aircraft are based at RAF Lossiemouth and RAF Marham with GR4's.
Writer
The Harrier, the World's first vertical take off fighter evolved from the P.1127 project and the follow on from this, the Kestrel. The Harrier has gradually evolved through the GR1-GR3 and the AV-8A, the American version. Later Aircraft were upgraded to the GR5, GR7 and the current Mk GR9. Other Mks of Harrier are also operated by the Indiarf Navy and Spain. The Harrier has had a long and successful detachment of several years operating in Afghanistan, which it has recently returned from in time to celebrate it's 40th anniversary at RAF Wittering. The Harrier is unrivalled throughout the World and plays a major part both on land and sea.
