During the late 1960's a number of European countries examined ways to replace their existing fleet of combat aircraft using next-generation design techniques. Several countries looked at variable geometry wing configurations as a means of making a plane perform well throughout a wider flight envelope. Variable geometry allows the pilot and/or fly by wire system to adapt the aircraft's wing shape to the optimal settings dependant on its height, speed, and load. The Tornado takes this one step further and incorporates swiveling weapons pylons that always ensure the stores are parallel to the airframe, thus minimizing drag and improving airflow across the entire surface of the aircraft especially at low altitudes.

Britain and France joined forces on a variable geometry aircraft project, called the Anglo French Variable Geometry (AFVG) project. France was already in the process of developing a variable geometry airframe of its own. In 1968, Germany, Holland, Belgium, Italy, and Canada formed a working group to look at replacements for the aging F-104. The outcome was initially called the Multi-Role Aircraft (MRA) project, which was later changed to the Multi-Role Combat Aircraft (MCRA). Britain later joined this group on the strength of its variable geometry design.

Pictured here is a 1:72 scale replica of a RAF Panavia GR. Mk. 1 Tornado fighter-bomber that was attached to 2 Squadron, then deployed to Norway in 1995. Sold Out!

Dimensions:
Length: 11-1/4-inches
Wingspan: 11-inches

Release Date: February 2010

Historical Account: "Storm Front" - As part of Britain's contribution to NATO the RAF has regularly deployed to Norway on exercise. Providing the reconnaissance element of these exercises, RAF Marham's 2 (AC) Sqn regularly sent aircraft carrying this 'arctic' style camouflage, with white paint temporarily replacing the green on the standard green and grey camouflage.

Using the specialist GR1A version of the Tornado, 2 (AC) Squadron were a vital part of NATO's intelligence gathering force, with the GR1A Tornado's Linescan imaging systems and IR cameras being able to rapidly provide imagery to battlefield commanders, in any weather or conditions.

The GR1A proved the mainstay of the RAF tactical reconnaissance force, replacing the Jaguar in this role. It is a role that 2 (AC) Squadron continue to fulfill from RAF Marham to this day, albeit now with the updated Tornado GR4A.