Vulcan XM 607

[Simon ski]

Has anyone else thought about the fate of Vulcan XM 607? Languishing for many years on a hardstand at RAF Waddington facing everything that Mother Nature can throw at her. Surely this aircraft deserves, at very least, is a place in one of our many Air Museums. The scale and complexity of this bombing mission by the RAF should surely be recognised and exhibited for all to see. Perhaps though in these modern times there would always be a risk of upsetting the PC brigade! Just think what an attraction Lancaster AJ-G would have made if only someone had the foresight to stop the scrapping of this priceless aircraft...

[Drinkmat]

Moving it would be an interesting and expensive exercise. Could you think of a location that would want it?

[pumpka]

Why move it, would it be better just putting a roof over where it is. No sides just a roof so rain & sun's Ray's do know more damage. That way you would still be able to view it.

[Simon ski]

Believe you me the view of the Vulcan is not that great standing on the A15...

[Thunder]

From what I was told way back in 2001, is that 607 is so rotten inside that moving it would probably destroy it.

[Simon ski]

You are probably right about the state of the aircraft now. If it could be moved it would need to be undercover preferably at one of the large museums e.g. Duxford.Cosford etc....

[FlyingFairy]

Around 5 years ago, a squadron association commissioned Mel James (the SEngO at the time of Falklands Crisis) to carry out an in-depth report on the state of the aircraft with a view to providing costings to refurbish her. Unsure what came of that, however probably out with of an association budget?

Bear in mind she sat outside for many years adjacent to one of the entrance gates before moving to her current location adjacent to the A15, so has been exposed to the elements for many years with little or no anti-det work.

So as Thunder has already highlighted, attempting to move her will probably be very detrimental!

[Simon ski]

Understand that FF, such a terrible shame though...

[Nighthawke]

With around 10 airframes still extant in several major museums they don't need a second one. Duxford, Hendon, Cosford and Newark for starters. Many types have been lost altogether over the decades. It is a shame but you can't have it all.

[Simon ski]

Fair comment Nighthawke, but none can boast the history and achievement of that particular aircraft!!

[TankBuster]

With hindsight XM607 is the airframe which probably should have been preserved in the RAF museum at Hendon.
They said that 603 was too far gone and beyond saving, but save her they did so I guess there is hope for 607's long term future.

TankBuster

[Vulture 01]

Don't forget that XM597, the one that flew the anti-radar missions, and diverted to Rio, is still alive, well and in good health at east Fortune.

[RichBro]

This subject was raised on the Waddington page back in Nov 2016. The message then was that after a structural survey it needs mostly cosmetic work, apart from a couple areas that need strengthening. Also stated that there are plans for restoration from several interested parties. It was hoped that work would start after all the runway and taxi way repairs had been completed. Now gone very quiet again. Don't know if John at the WAVE has any more info??

[Hurrican]

Well i for one hope they try to save her knowing the time in our brilliant weather dont do any thing any good 607 is a very famous bird the people of our aircraft museums can if funds are allocated can restore anyplane to its former glory time elbow greese and money

[Ghastly Whisper]

With hindsight XM607 is the airframe which probably should have been preserved in the RAF museum at Hendon.

From what I've read the Hendon Vulcan arrived before the BB missions and donated its refueling probe, as did a few others. Said item is, I think back in place.

[Unknown74]

Been reading this post and wondered why no one had mentioned the East Fortune Vulcan until I came across Vulture 01s post, anyone know what the interior is like on that one and would they be able to allow people to have a look inside?.....