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A Canberra aircraft flying high
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A Canberra aircraft flying high
The original Canberra design dates from the 1940s and the prototype aircraft flew for the first time from Warton aerodrome on 13 May 1949.
The type first entered operational service with the RAF in 1951 as a medium bomber, although photo reconnaissance (PR) variants were first produced soon afterwards.
The prototype PR9 made its maiden flight on 8 July 1955. The aircraft was built under licence by Short Brothers, Belfast and in total, 23 production standard PR9s were built between 1958 and 1962. The first operational sortie was flown by an aircraft of No 58 Squadron in April 1960. The remaining PR9s serve with No 39 Squadron at RAF Marham
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Credit: MoD/Crown copyright (year)
Media ID 15229044
© Crown copyright
Aircraft Bomber Equipment Reconnaissance Royal Air Force Canberra
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases a remarkable moment in aviation history, featuring a Canberra aircraft soaring through the skies with unparalleled grace and power. The original design of this iconic aircraft can be traced back to the 1940s when it first took flight from Warton aerodrome on that fateful day of May 13,1949. Initially introduced as a medium bomber for the Royal Air Force (RAF) in 1951, the Canberra quickly proved its versatility by also serving as an exceptional platform for photo reconnaissance missions. Soon after its operational debut, PR variants were produced to meet the growing demand for aerial intelligence gathering. The prototype PR9 model, which is captured majestically in this image during its maiden flight on July 8,1955, represents the pinnacle of Canberra's evolution. Built under license by Short Brothers in Belfast, a total of 23 production standard PR9s were meticulously crafted between 1958 and 1962. In April of 1960, an aircraft from No. 58 Squadron embarked on its inaugural operational sortie - marking another milestone achieved by these extraordinary jets. Today, the remaining fleet of PR9s faithfully serves with No. 39 Squadron at RAF Marham. Photographed by Jack Pritchard with utmost skill and precision, this print immortalizes not just an aircraft but also pays tribute to those who have served tirelessly within Britain's armed forces throughout history. It stands as a testament to human ingenuity and technological advancements that continue to shape our
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