The 2-stick Buccaneer, XV344, was an ex-FAA aircraft extensively modified and operated by the RAE at Farnborough. Christened Nightbird due to its experimental use, a removable control column could be fitted in the rear cockpit - no rudder or throttles. The design and modification was carried out at Cranfield.
The rear stick was intended to allow a safety pilot to take control if it was considered a hazardous situation was developing. However, even by day the forward view from the rear cockpit was hardly ideal for such a responsibility. At low-level by night, without the full benefit of the EO displays fitted in the front cockpit and precious little visible when wearing NVGs, not much point really. Hence, the stick was fitted for an assessment by the tps at Brough and then left on the shelf thereafter,
Rather an expensive and prolonged exercise that was overtaken by the confidence and safety procedures developed during nigh low-flying using NVGs in alternative aircraft.
The aircraft was in a pretty appalling state when delivered direct from Ark Royal but after much RAE tender loving care it was a pleasure to fly. It now rests on a concrete plinth, hidden away in the middle of the QinetiQ site at Farnborough. I stroke it when I pass by.
lm