(All images by Google Earth)
Avro Vulcan buffs and other UK aviation enthusiasts may remember aircraft XH563 on display at RAF Scampton for a brief period from the early to mid 1980s. XH563, which was built in 1960 and the first Vulcan B2 delivered to a front-line squadron, was retired from RAF service in 1982. Soon after, the old V-bomber was placed on display by the Lincolnshire airfield’s eastern perimeter fence. But its tenure was short-lived and, despite appearing to be in fine condition, XH563 was scrapped in 1986. Almost 30 years later, three concrete blocks are all that remain of Scampton’s Vulcan gate guardian.
Service History
Early in its career, Vulcan XH563 was adapted to carry the Skybolt air launched ballistic missile before several spells with 230 OCU, the type’s training unit. From 1973 until its retirement, the aircraft was operated by No. 27 Squadron from RAF Scampton in the maritime radar reconnaissance role. As a Vulcan B2 MRR, XH563 gained a smart, high gloss camouflage scheme which it retained until its retirement almost a decade later. (More here.)
Scrapping
The aircraft can be seen here proudly displayed by Scampton’s viewing area, accessed by a narrow lane off the A15 road leading to the airfield’s crash gate 8. As of 2014, this spot remains unoccupied. So clearly the Vulcan wasn’t in the way of future construction projects, and thus perhaps fell victim to the RAF’s ‘one gate, one gate guard’ policy. With the exception of Vulcan 607 at nearby RAF Waddington, no Vulcan gate guards survive, despite various examples appearing at Finningley, St Athan and other locations during the 1980s.
Fortunately XH563′s cockpit survived scrapping and for some years was used as a ‘tree house’ in Banchory, Scotland. It is now in the hands of a private collector, reportedly in good condition. Meanwhile, the three rather out-of-place blocks of concrete, positioned to prevent the mighty V-bomber’s wheels from sinking into the grass, remain as solitary reminders of its short-term preservation.
Keep reading – browse more Avro Vulcan articles here.
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