20230715 (91)_Replica_Messerschmitt_Me_262_Schwalbe_and_Gloster_Meteor_T7
The Me 262 was one of the highlights of RIAT 2023 but unfortunately prevented from flying on the Saturday by high crosswinds so we only saw it in the static display. This is a modern build replica of the superior German jet fighter of WWII, with up-to-date engines. With the few surviving airframes firmly ensconced in national museums it provides the only opportunity to see the Me 262 fly in the 21st century. The Meteor was the only Allied jet fighter to see combat in WWII where it was rushed into service with 616 Squadron against the 1944 V1 campaign: but it never met the 262 during the course of the war and no jet v jet dogfights took place. This later model Meteor, used by Martin Baker as an ejector seat testbed, has a remodelled tail and other refinements from the WWII version but still the Me 262 looks the more advanced aeroplane with its swept wings, shark-like fuselage and underslung podded engines as we see on every airliner of modern times. This was reflected in performance with the 262 capable of 540mph against the contemporary Meteor's initial 420mph and 460 with the Mk III from December 1944. The Royal International Air Tattoo, RIAT 2023, was at RAF Fairford, Gloucestershire: the world's greatest military airshow and a must every year for any UK aviation enthusiast at least.
20230715 (91)_Replica_Messerschmitt_Me_262_Schwalbe_and_Gloster_Meteor_T7
The Me 262 was one of the highlights of RIAT 2023 but unfortunately prevented from flying on the Saturday by high crosswinds so we only saw it in the static display. This is a modern build replica of the superior German jet fighter of WWII, with up-to-date engines. With the few surviving airframes firmly ensconced in national museums it provides the only opportunity to see the Me 262 fly in the 21st century. The Meteor was the only Allied jet fighter to see combat in WWII where it was rushed into service with 616 Squadron against the 1944 V1 campaign: but it never met the 262 during the course of the war and no jet v jet dogfights took place. This later model Meteor, used by Martin Baker as an ejector seat testbed, has a remodelled tail and other refinements from the WWII version but still the Me 262 looks the more advanced aeroplane with its swept wings, shark-like fuselage and underslung podded engines as we see on every airliner of modern times. This was reflected in performance with the 262 capable of 540mph against the contemporary Meteor's initial 420mph and 460 with the Mk III from December 1944. The Royal International Air Tattoo, RIAT 2023, was at RAF Fairford, Gloucestershire: the world's greatest military airshow and a must every year for any UK aviation enthusiast at least.