Black Mike; What does the future hold!

[Tashengurt]

Does anyone know what, if any plans are being made for the various remaining BDR and gate guard airframes at Leuchars for when it closes?

[Valiantone]

Well the Phantom that was outside in 43 Squadrons HAS complex is apparently now in the hands of the FAA Historic Flight at Yeovilton. So at least its future is safe for now.

That leaves the Lightning in the 111 Sqn HAS site, and the Tornado and Phantom on the gate as well as Black Mike to find homes for assuming they do pass the base over to the Army.

TS

[glad rag]

Well the Phantom that was outside in 43 Squadrons HAS complex is apparently now in the hands of the FAA Historic Flight at Yeovilton

WTF! that one set the record from John O Groats to Lands End under 43 Sqn colours!

[Valiantone]

Black Mike (XV582) did all the record breaking flights.

XV586 is the ex 43 Sqn painted jet that went to Yeovilton and ws in the static at the Air day in June.

TS

[glad rag]

Sure it was tail GJ on the NHS gate, the tailcode that did the run carried out by the last co at his personal [CAA] expense.
But as you showed, tail codes can be moved about, and that rings a [Black Mike] bell.

[Red Line Entry]

Indeed - Black Mike was 43 Sqn's AK until the Fighting Cocks got rid of their Phantoms. Clearly none of Tremblers own jets were in a good enough state to paint up!:E

[biscuit74]

When is Leuchars expected to close?

[Tashengurt]

I thought it was 2013. Not much evidence of it winding down though.