An imposing and highly detailed 1:72 scale diecast representation of an English Electric Lightning F.Mk 6 operated by Royal Air Force No. 11 Squadron during the final years of the type's frontline service. Released as part of the Corgi Aviation Archive Collector Series, AA32310 depicts Lightning XR769 at RAF Binbrook in Lincolnshire during 1983.
No. 11 Squadron became closely associated with the Lightning while based at RAF Binbrook, which served as the principal home of the aircraft during the closing period of its RAF career. The squadron maintained Britain's fast-response interceptor capability, with Lightning crews ready to identify and intercept approaching aircraft during the Cold War.
XR769 was constructed during December 1965 and served with RAF Nos. 74, 5 and 11 Squadrons. The model represents the aircraft in its No. 11 Squadron finish, combining dark green and grey camouflage with prominent RAF roundels, the squadron's eagle insignia and distinctive identification markings on the tail.
The English Electric Lightning was designed as a high-performance interceptor capable of exceptional speed and climbing performance. Its unusual vertically staggered twin-engine arrangement, highly swept wings and narrow fuselage gave the aircraft an unmistakable profile and allowed it to exceed twice the speed of sound.
The F.Mk 6 was developed to address the limited endurance of earlier Lightning variants. It incorporated increased fuel capacity, an enlarged ventral tank, revised wing geometry and the ability to carry additional overwing fuel tanks, extending the aircraft's operational range while retaining its formidable interception performance.
Limited to 1,500 pieces worldwide, this substantial Corgi release is particularly appealing to collectors of Cold War aviation and classic Royal Air Force interceptors. The model features heavyweight diecast construction, a detailed cockpit beneath a removable clear canopy, large overwing fuel tanks, an integrated ventral cannon and fuel pack, simulated metallic engine exhaust panels and the original Corgi Aviation Archive presentation stand.
Fact Sheet
Brand: Corgi
Series: Aviation Archive Collector Series
Model code: AA32310
Aircraft: English Electric Lightning F.Mk 6
Serial: XR769
Unit: Royal Air Force No. 11 Squadron
Role: Supersonic interceptor
Theatre / Base: RAF Binbrook, Lincolnshire, England
Date/Period: 1983
Operator / Country: Royal Air Force / United Kingdom
Scale: 1:72
Limited Edition Size: 1,500 pieces worldwide
Material: Heavyweight diecast metal with quality sub-components
Special Features: Limited edition release, authentic RAF No. 11 Squadron markings, eagle tail insignia, green and grey camouflage, large overwing fuel tanks, enlarged ventral fuel and cannon pack, detailed cockpit, removable clear canopy, simulated metallic engine exhaust panels and original presentation display stand
Model Dimensions
Length: 9.25" or 23.5 cm
Width (Wingspan): 5.75" or 14.6 cm