Handley Page Victor K.2, Cockpit Section

This aircraft was built as a bomber in 1960, but was modified for the reconnaissance role in 1965, before being converted into a tanker in 1978. In this new role, it took part in both the Falklands Conflict and the Gulf War before being retired in 1993.

The Victor was the final three of the V-bombers to be introduced into service, and the last to be retired. After the Royal Navy took over the UK’s nuclear deterrent in 1970, the V-force declined in importance. Many Victors served successfully as tankers for longer than they did as the strategic bombers for which they were designed.