The Vulcan
surely one of the most remarkable aircraft ever built the Second World War
influenced in their research and design.
The
aircraft was Avro’s futuristic and adventurous response to a 1946 Air Ministry Operational
Requirement calling for a bomber able to carry a 4540kg / 10009lb atomic bomb
to a target 2775km / 1725 miles away.
The Avro
type 698 was conceived as a high altitude atomic bomber, and was the firs four engine
delta wing aircraft. The unconventional wing shape was chosen because it combines
good load carrying capabilities and high subsonic speed at altitude. To help
gain data for the radical new design several “mini Vulcans” research aircraft
were built the Avro type 707s. Gradually the design was changed before the well
known Vulcan layout was finalized. What had been a flying wing with wingtip
fins acquired a single central fin, the nose was extended and a distinct
fuselage section evolved.