Commemorating Operation BLACK BUCK

Commemorating the anniversary of Operation BLACK BUCK which started 40 years ago, Airfix displays a diorama depicting one of a series of long-range bombing missions. 

On the 1st May 1982, during the Falklands conflict, the RAF began a series of extremely long-range bombing missions using Vulcan bombers from RAF Waddington.  These missions were known as Operation BLACK BUCK.

This display captures the historical event of the bombing of Port Stanley airfield. 

The 6,600 nautical miles covered is the longest range bombing raid undertaken in RAF history to date. 

Each mission took off with two Vulcan bombers and up to 11 Victor tankers.  The Victors were to provide air-to-air refuelling while the second Vulcan was there as a reserve in case of any issues with the primary bomber after take off.

The first mission departed from Wideawake Airfield, Ascension Island in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean on the evening of the 30th April 1982 and took approximately 16 hours to complete, travelling almost 6,600 nautical miles.  Not long after take off, however, the primary Vulcan experienced problems and had to return meaning the reserve aircraft, piloted by Martin Withers, took over.