The BAC 167 Strikemaster is a British light combat aircraft produced during the Cold War.
History[]
The Strikemaster was developed from the BAC Jet Provost , which was a military trainer from the late 1950s. It recieved more powerful engines, wing hardpoints, a stronger airframe and improved navigation and communication gear. The Strikemaster first flew on 26 October 1967 with production beginning the same year. It served with a number of air forces as a trainer and attack aircraft and was well-liked for its ability to operate from a variety of airstrips. However, they were largely retired after problems with fatigue cracking were found to be too prevalent. Production ceased in 1984 with 146 examples built.
While Strikemasters were largely used as trainers, they did see combat with several countries. They were used in the Dhofar Rebellion by Oman's air force, and during the 1995 Cenepa War by Ecuador. Strikemasters were also by the British "Team Viper" aerobatic display group until they disbanded in 2012.
Specifications[]
- Powerplant: one Rolls-Royce Viper Mk. 535 turbojet, producing 3,410 lb st (1,547 kg st)
- Top speed: 481 mph (774 km/h)
- Max Sea Level speed: 450 mph (726 km/h)
- Initial climb (Clean with max fuel): 5,250 ft (1,600 m) per min
- Ferry Range: 1,615 miles (2,600 km)
- Combat Radius (3,300 weapon load)[N 1]: 145 miles (233 km)
- Service Ceiling: 44,000 feet (13,410 m)
- Crew: 2
- Empty weight: 6,270 lb (2,840 kg)
- Loaded weight (clean): 9,200 lb (4,170 kg)
- Maximum weight: 11,500 lb (5,210 kg)
- Length: 33 ft 8.5 in (10.27 m)
- Height: 10 ft 11.5 in (3.34 m)
- Wingspan: 36 ft 10 in (11.23 m)
- Armament: Two 7.62 mm machine guns, each with 550 rounds and four hardpoints capable of carrying 3,000 lbs of ordnance.[1]
References[]
Notes[]
- ↑ This presumably includes the weight of the guns and ammunition.
Sources[]
- ↑ Gunston, Bill. Illustrated Guide To Modern Fighters And Attack Aircraft. Salamander Books. 1980. ISBN 0 86101 055 8 Page 12