Following the Falklands War, Britain reduced its air presence on the Islands to just four Phantom interceptors, re-designating the unit as 1435 Flight—reviving a name steeped in WWII heritage. This nod to history drew inspiration from the Hal Far Fighter Flight, which famously defended Malta with Gloster Sea Gladiators. On 1 November 1988, as No. 23(F) Squadron began transitioning to the Tornado F.3 back in the UK, its Falklands detachment adopted the 1435 Flight title, continuing a proud legacy of determined defense with limited resources.
Among these aircraft, Phantom FGR.2 XV466 stood out with its striking white tail and large Maltese Cross, becoming one of the most iconic and visually impressive RAF jets of the postwar era. XV466 played a vital role in maintaining a strong air deterrent in the South Atlantic and cemented 1435 Flight’s enduring presence in the region.
