Vickers Varsity
The Vickers Varsity T. Mk 1 was a twin-engine trainer aircraft, which was operated for 25 years by the Royal Air Force from 1951.
Design and development
The Varsity was developed by Vickers aircraft based on the Viking and Valetta to the specification T.13/48 to meet for a twin-engine trainer aircraft, bringing the Wellington T.10 and the Valetta T3 and T4 should be replaced. The main differences are the larger wingspan, the fuselage and the nose wheel gear. In addition, the varsity had a belly pan for the training of future bombardier.
The prototype Type 668 first flew on 17 July 1949.
A civilian version was planned with the label VC.3, but was not pursued due to the success of the VC.2 Viscount.
Operational history
The Varsity was introduced to replace the Wellington T10 trainer. 1951, the first models from the series production were delivered.
The Swedish Air Force operated a varsity from January 1953 to 1973 and was mainly used for electronic reconnaissance. In Sweden, the Varsity was designated as Tp 82.
The Varsity was retired from the RAF in 1976; their role as pilot and navigation trainer took over the Scottish Aviation Jetstream T1.
The last flying Varsity (Serial WL679 ) was operated by the Royal Aircraft Establishment to 1992.
User
- Jordanian Air Force
- Swedish Air Force
- Royal Air Force