Airfix Handley Page Victor K.2/SR.2-YT9935400

Description

The Handley Page (HP) Victor was a jet-powered, strategic bomber which, alongside the other V bombers, the Avro Vulcan and Vickers Valliant, formed an essential part of Britains nuclear deterrent during the early part of the Cold War. The Victor was designed to carry out long-range, low-altitude attacks, but was later relegated to an aerial refueling role when it was no longer deemed effective as a strategic bomber.Subject to RAFs requirements for greater tactical maneuverability and a higher ceiling, the B.2 variant with more powerful Rolls Royce Conway engines was developed in 1959. Thirty-four were produced and several were later converted for reconnaissance and aerial refueling purposes. Two RAF squadrons formed on the B.2 after it entered service in 1962, but it was soon succeeded by the B.2R, a conversion which allowed them to carry Blue Steel nuclear missiles in addition to free-fall nuclear payloads. Following the introduction of submarine-launched Polaris missiles in 1969, the Victor was gradually relieved of its role as a nuclear deterrent.