Lightning
English Electric Lightning F6, UK - Air Force AN1409778.jpg
Lightning F.6 of RAF Binbrook seen during a "Priory" exercise in the 1980s
RoleInterceptor (primary); general purpose fighter
National originUnited Kingdom
Manufacturer
  • English Electric
  • British Aircraft Corporation
First flight
  • 4 August 1954 (P.1A)
  • 4 April 1957
Introduction11 July 1960 (frontline service)
Retired1988 (RAF)
Primary usersRoyal Air Force
  • Kuwait Air Force
  • Royal Saudi Air Force
Number built337 (including prototypes)