THE AVRO SHACKLETON
The Mark Two

As Compiled By Chris Ashworth
Aircraft Contracts, Production and Individual Histories

This details the contracts placed for Shackletons with A.V. Roe & Co Ltd, the serials allocated, contract changes and individual histories of the aircraft built, with particular reference to trials usage, operational service, unit codes and major modifications.

Contract 6/Acft/3628/CB6(a) dated 18 May, 1949, for 38 Shackleton MR 1 s to Specification R.5/46 and serialled WB818-WB837, WB844-WB861 (WB862 also allotted 23.3.49, but cancelled 3.5.49 before contract finalised). Completed as 37MR 1As and one MR 2 prototype

Contract 6/Acft/5047/CB6(a) dated August l950 for 19 Shackleton MR 1As to Specification R.5/46 and serialled WG507 - WG511, WG525 - WG533, WG553 - WG558 (allotted 15.6.50). Completed as 9 MR 1As and 10 MR 2s>

WB833 MR 2 Prototype

• Removed from MR I production line and rebuilt to Mk 2 standard as the prototype under Contract 6/ Acft/5834/CB6(a). First flown 17.6.52 at Woodford and delivered to A&AEE Boscombe Down 23.7.52 for trials that covered performance, engineering, radio and navigation assessment To RAE Fazrnborough 2.12.52 for radio compass tests, and to Woodford 29.1.53 for CS(A) performance tests. Transferred to Langar 30.11.54 for Tl work, which culminated in Phase I (Mods 600 and 674) development. To A&AEE 21.2.58 for clearance of radio installation, revised cockpit layout and lighting followed by RAF Handling Squadron appraisal. Returned to Langar 1.10.58 for Phase II radio and radar installation (Mod 771) and contractor's flight trials. To A&AEE 22.9.59 for flight performance tests of Mod 771. Approval for aircraft to go to the RAE on 10.11.59 for demonstration of sonobuoy system to American and Canadian personnel, the trials continuing at Boscombe on return. Air sea rescue gear dropping clearance also completed before WB833 was transferred to ASWDU at Ballykelly 17.11.60 for service trials. Coded B. Sustained Cat.3 damage 28.3.62, repaired on site by Avro CWP 8.5.6220.6.62. Further Cat.3 damage repaired by 23MU personnel 210.10.62, the aircraft remaining with ASWDU until reallocated to HSA 15.5.64 for update to Phase II1 standard. On completion 30.9.66 WB833 was retained by HSA for TI of Mods 1348 and 1403. Despatched to Ballykelly 16.12.66 and allocated to 210 Sqn, coded T. Transferred to Ballykelly Wing 2.67 still as T, and crashed in bad visibility on the Mull of Kintyre 19.4.68. SoC Cat.5 the same day.

WG530 MR 2

• First flown 15.8.52 at Woodford and A/Cn 25.9.52. Transferred to CS(A) and delivered to A&AEE Boscombe Down the same day for temperate and tropical performance and engine cooling trials, followed by nose-gun air-firing tests. In 4.53 reallocated for bombing and gunnery acceptance, and in 1.54 for checks on the camera installation, handling with aft C of G and an assessment of leading-edge spoilers. On completion delivered to 23MU Aldergrove 20.10.54 for storage, during which WG530 visited 49MU Colerne for mods 14.3.56 - 1.4.56.is sued to 120 Sqn 16.10.56 and coded H. Cat.3 damage repaired on site by 23MU 13.12.57 - 6.1.58 and on 19.12.58 was despatched to 49MU Colerne for Phase I update. While at Colerne sustained Cat.3 damage 19.3.59, repair of which was completed 5.5.59. Stored at 49MU until issued to 224 Sqn 10.6.59 and coded O on arrival at Gibraltar. Returned to 49MU 27.4.60 for mods and a Cat.3 repair by Avro CWP 18.11.6 - 29.12.60. To 42 Sqn 18.1.61 and recoded E. Allotted to Avro 5.6.61 for Phase II update, completed 30.7.62. To 205 Sqn 20.8.62 and coded G. Ferried to UK, arriving 27MU Shawbury 28.7.67. Declared NEA 1.8.67 and sold as scrap to International Alloys Ltd 3.9.68.

WG531 MR 2

• First flown 21.8.52 and was demonstrated at the SBAC show, Farnborough, 9.52. A/Cn 30.9.52, but allocated to CS(A) 24.10.52 and remained at Woodford on loan to Avro for cabin-heating flight trials. Allotted to 38MU 25.9.53, but this was cancelled and aircraft sent direct to St Eval 15.12.53 for service assessment of conditioning and internal noise levels. ToC by St Eval Station Flight, the aircraft was transferred to 42 Sqn 5.4.54 and coded AH. To CCMC St Mawgan 29.11.54 - 15.12.54 for mods. Missing 11.1.55 and assumed to have collided with WL743 south-west of Ireland.

WG532 MR 2

• First flown 12.9.52 and A/Cn 30.9.52. Allocated to CS(A) and retained at Woodford for Tl of Glow Worm rocket flare installation using Mk 8 RP rails. To Hawarden 8.1.53, transferring to 23MU Aldergrove 14.1.53. Issued to ASWDU 21.1.53 and coded F-F. Service trials of Glow Worm system were continued at A&AEE Boscombe Down from 9.53 until 5.54. Aircraft despatched to Avro Langar 1.6.54 for Tl of Mod 462 and on completion of tests at Woodford transferred to 42 Sqn 26.10.54 (presumably for assessment as apparently remained uncoded). To CCMC St Mawgan 26.1.55 for major inspection completed 5.55. Mods 3 - 19.10.55 were followed by a Cat.3 flying accident 4.11.55, when the aircraft swung off the runway during an asymmetric landing. Repaired on site by Avro CWP 11.11.55 - 9.10.56. Returned to 42 Sqn 7.5.56, but transferred to 120 Sqn 9.10.56 and coded F. Cat.3 damage 4.4.57, when wing struck WL745 while taxying for SAR sortie, was repaired by 278MU 5.4.57 - 14.5.57, WG532 returning to 120 Sqn the following day. Despatched to 49MU 21.10.58 for Phase I modifications, completed 26.2.59, when aircraft was delivered to 224 Sqn and coded S. To Avro for Phase Il update 26.10.60. Completed 27.6.61, WG532 returned to 224 Sqn 3.8.61 and was recoded Z. To 205 Sqn 22.8.66 and coded E until ferried to 27MU Shawbury 23.8.67. Declared NEA 25.8.67 and sold as scrap 3.9.68 to International Alloys Ltd.

WG533 MR 2/T.2

• Firstflown 18.9.52 and A/Cn 10.10.52. Delivered to the RAF Handling Squadron, Manby, the same day. On completion of compilation of 'Pilot's Notes' WG533 was despatched to 23MU 29.6.53 and stored until issued to 42 Sqn 25.1.55 and coded A-H. Mods completed 13.5.55 - 6.6.55, the aircraft returning to 42 Sqn 16.6.55. Recoded H in 1956. Further mods 6 - 26.3.56 and 11.3.57 - 12.7.57 (49MU) WG533 remaining with 42 Sqn until despatched to ASWDU 1.9.58 and coded E. Allocated to Avro 12.3 59 for Phase I conversion. completed 27.2.60. To 38 Sqn 20.3.60 and coded W. Allotted to de Havilland at Hawarden 4.4.61 for Phase II update. the work being completed 10.1.62. Issued to 224 Sqn 15.1.62 and recoded B. Returned to 38 Sqn 25.10.66 and again coded W. To HSA Langar 20.2.67 for T.2 mods and ferried to MOTU 19.7.68. Coded R. To HSA Bitteswell 28.5.69 for mods, returning to St Mawgan for MOTU 17.7.69. To 2360CU 1.8.70 (on change of name) and ferried to 5MU 26.10.70 for removal of training equipment. Despatched to 205 Sqn 21.12.70 as a standard Phase III aircraft and coded K on arrival. Transferred to 204 Sqn (Far East Detachment) 1.11.71 and recoded D. Ferried to the UK. arriving St Athan MU 10.1.72 and declared NEA the same day. Allocated for sale as scrap 10.12.73, but instead dumped at St Athan.

WG553 MR 2

• First flown 2.10.52 and A/Cn 30.10.52. Ferried to 23MU 5.12.52 and issued to ASWDU I. I .53, coded F-A. Modified by CAPMF St Mawgan 3.54. Cat.3 damage 27.1.56, when the bomb doors buckled in a high-speed dive, repaired on site at Farnborough by Avro CWP 8.2.56-15.3.56. Returned to ASWDU 21.3.56 and received a 'special fitment' 5.4.56 - 9.5.56. Cat.3 damage sustained 15.5.56 and was repaired by Avro CWP 24.5.56 - 14.6.56. Transferred to 49MU 11.2.57 for Phase I modifications, returning to ASWDU 12.5.57. Again Cat.3 2.5.58, repairs being made by Avro CWP 5.5.58 - 11.6.58. On return to ASWDU 12.6.58 WG553 was recoded A. Another 'special fitment' completed 30.6.58 - 24.9.58 the aircraft returning to ASWDU 30.9.58. To Avro for Phase II update 2.3.61, completed 30.4.62. Issued to 205 Sqn 16.7.62 and coded D. Declared Cat.3 18.7.67 and with Phase II1 aircraft available WG553 was patched up and flown back to the UK, arriving at 27MU Shawbury 5.10.67. Declared NEA the same day, WG553 was sold as Cat.5(Scrap) to Bushells of London 24.6.68.

WG554 MR 2/T.2

• First flown 10.10.52 and A/Cn 30.10.52. Delivered to 23MU 5.12.52 and issued to 42 Sqn 30.1.53. Coded A-A. Modified 17.6.55 - 9.7.55 and 26.3.56 - 26.4.56, when coded A. Despatched to Avro 10.1.58 for Phase I modifications. The work was completed 27.2.59 and WG554 was ferried to Gibraltar for 224 Sqn 12.3.59, becoming M. Returned to Avro 11.7.60 for Phase Il conversion, completed 28.2.61. Delivered to ASWDU 3.3.61 and coded A. Declared Cat.3 1.8.62, repaired on site by 23MU and returned to ASWDU 10.8.62. More Cat.3 damage 27.5.66, repaired by 60MU and WG554 was back with ASWDU 13.6.66. To 205 Sqn 5.9.66 and recoded G. To HSA 16.1.67 for T.2 conversion at Langar. On completion ferried to MOTU St Mawgan 6.6.68 and coded V. Cat.3 damage 14.1.69 was repaired by HSA CWP 20.1.69 - 6.2.69 and similar damage 2.2.70 was put right by 71MU 9 17.2.70, when WG554 returned to MOTU. To 5MU 10.7.70 for removal of training equipment and issued to the St Mawgan Gulf Detachment 25.9.70 as a Phase III aircraft. Transferred to 210 Sqn 13.10.70, retaining V code. To St Athan MU 1.6.71 and declared NEA 27.8.71. Cat.5(Scrap) 16.11.72 and dumped at St Athan

WG555 MR 2

• First flown 21.10.52 and A/Cn 28.11.52. To 23MU 9.12.52 and issued to 42 Sqn 12.1.53 with WG556, Coded A-G. Cat.3 27.4.55 repaired by Avro CWP 4.55 - 5.55 and immediately after return to Squadron 10.5.55 WG555 underwent modification 23.5.55 - 10.6.55. Recoded G 1956, remaining with 42 Sqn until despatched to Avro 6.3.58 for Phase I modification. On completion 6.4.59 the aircraft was delivered to 210 Sqn and coded U. To DH Chester (Hawarden) 3.11.60 for Phase II update, completed 5.6.61. To 204 Sqn 8.6.61 and recoded N. Cat.3 27.12.62 and repaired by 23MU, returning to 204 Sqn 14.1.63. To HSA 26.11.65 for Phase II1 conversion, WG555 being delivered to the Ballykelly Wing (204 Sqn) on completion 24.2.67 and was coded K. To 204 Sqn 10.70 still as K, transferring to the Majunga Detachment Support Unit 26.3.71. Returned to the parent unit, 204 Sqn, 2.72 and ferried from Honington to Catterick 9.5.72 for the RAF Fire Fighting School. SoC 9.5.72.

WG556 MR 2

• First flown 28.10.52 and A/Cn 28.11.52. To 23MU 9.12.52 and issued to 42 Sqn 12.1.52 with WG555. Coded A-J. Underwent mods 6 - 20.6.55 and was declared Cat.3 15.7.55 after a heavy landing. Repaired on site by 49MU 19.7.55 - 18.11.55. Returned to 42 Sqn 22.11.55 and recoded J. To 23MU for storage 12.2.56, but transferred to 5MU Kemble 14.3.57 and prepared for issue to 120 Sqn, arriving Aldergrove 20.5.57 and coded C. To RAF Khormaksar 10.2.58 and issued to 37 Sqn three days later as K. To Avro 5.7.59 for Phase I update, which was completed 30.6.60. To 224 Sqn and coded A until allocated to the MoA Air Fleet 1.62 and loaned to Avro Langar for Phase III trials work on the carriage of mixed weapon loads against Contracts KD/L/091 and 092/CB6(a). Delivered to the A&AEE Boscombe Down 14.9.65 for radio and navigation CA release tests, the aircraft returning to Langar 7.12.65 and prepared for RAF service. Instead WG556 was sent to the RAE Farnborough 12.5.66 for the installation of Jezebel sonics equipment by the Radio Department. On completion the aircraft was despatched to Ballykelly 1.9.66 for ASWDU trials on the equipment. Coded B with ASWDU, the aircraft remained on strength until 1.4.70, when the unit disbanded. Transferred to the Ballykelly Wing, probably still coded B, until 7.10.70, when ferried to St Athan and placed in open storage. Refurbished in 1977 and issued to 8 Sqn 5.5.77 to replace WL738 as a pilot-training aircraft with the unit. Coded A. Suffered a heavy landing at Lossiemouth during 1980 and declared Cat.5(GI). Issued with maintenance serial 8651 M and used by the Battle Damage Repair Flight at Lossimouth until transferred to the Fire Section 20.2.81 and scrapped 7.82.

WG557 MR 2

• First flown 5.11.52 and A/Cn 28.11.52. Delivered to 23MU 11.12.52 and issued to 206 Sqn 27.2.53. Coded B-Z. Cat.3 damage sustained 10.12.53 when tail wheel assembly collapsed after night landing, Repaired by Avro CWP 17.12.53 - 25.2.54, when returned to 206 Sqn. To 220 Sqn 19.3.54 and recoded T-L before transfer to 228 Sqn 16.9.54, when recoded L-L. Mods carried out 29.11.55 - 20.12.55 and despatched to 38MU for storage 25.1.56. Transferred to 23MU 9.10.56, 5MU 21.8.57 and 23MU again 18.10.57. Allocated to the RAE and after preparation was ferried to Farnborough 20.12.57 to replace Lincoln WD145 on the Armament Flight for development work on fuzing systems for nuclear weapons. On 28.9.60 WG557 was taken over by the ETPS for test pilot training, but returned to the Armament Flight 17.1.62 for underwater data transmission trials. Remained until 13.5.64, when declared surplus to requirement (although believed to have been erroneously recorded as having exceeded its fatigue life). SoC 28.10.64, the airframe being placed on the Farnborough dump.

WG558 MR 2/T.2

• First flown 11.11.52 and A/Cn 28.11.52. To 23MU 11.12.52 and issued to 206 Sqn 3.2.53. Coded B-Y. On 10.11.53 the undercarriage failed to retract after a 'roller' landing due to the tailwheel 'cocking' (ie, off centre). On landing the starboard undercarriage and tailwheel collapsed when the latter centred because the undercarriage selector was in the 'up' position. The resultant Cat.3 damage was repaired by Avro CWP 16.11.53-12.2.54, WG558 returning to 206 Sqn 19.2.54. To CAPMF St Mawgan 2 - 26.7.54 for mods. Transferred to 224 Sqn 12.8.54 and coded B-R. Modified 13 - 23.8.55 and 27.6.57 - 6.8.57 while still on Squadron strength before allocation to Avro 3.7.58 for Phase I update. On completion 28.8.59 WG558 was delivered to 42 Sqn and coded B. Transferred to 204 Sqn 11.10.60 and recoded P. To Avro Langar 27.4.61 for use as a TI aircraft for Mod 987 (improved washing and wiping facilities for pilot, bomb-aimer and gunner windscreens) against Contract KD/L/061/CB6(a). On 8.8.61 WG558 was reallocated to the A&AEE for trials on a new launching chute and associated warning-light systems (Mods 1010/1013), the aircraft arriving at Boscombe Down three days later. On completion of the trials WG558 returned to Langar and allocated for Phase II modification on 25.1.62 against Contract KK/H/0309/ CBZ4(c). Conversion started 29.1.62 and was complete 13.8.62, when despatched to Ballykelly and used as the Station reserve aircraft, coded C. Transferred to 210 Sqn 9.4.63 and coded Y. Declared Cat.3 11.2.64, repairs by 71 MU were complete 21.2.64, the aircraft returning to 210 Sqn the same day. To HSA Langar 30.11.66 for T.2 conversion and on completion was delivered to MOTU 22.2.68 and coded Y. Cat.3 damage sustained 3.11.68 was repaired by 71MU, WG558 returning to MOTU 14.2.69. Damaged again 19.5.69, the aircraft was in the hands of 71MU 22.5.69 - 8.8.69, but remained with MOTU until sent to 5MU Kemble 6.70 for the removal of training equipment. Issued to the St Mawgan Gulf Detachment as a Phase III aircraft 10.9.70, but transferred to 210 Sqn 13.10.70 retaining the old code Y. Returned to the UK and placed in storage at St Athan MU 1.6.71. Declared NEA 27.8.71 and Cat.5(Scrap) 25.1.74.

Contract 6/Acft/6129/CB6(a) dated December 1950 for 40 Shackleton MR 2s to Specification R.5/46 (Issue 2) serialled WL737 - WL759, WL785 - WL801 (allotted 19.12.50). All completed

WL737 MR 2

• First flown 17.11.52 and A/Cn 31.12.52. Delivered to 23MU 21. I .53 but loaned to CS(A) 18.2.53. Returned to 23MU 11.3.53 and issued to 220 Sqn 24.3.53 and coded T-K. On site Cat.3 repairs by 49MU 12.2.54 - 13.4.54. the aircraft returning to 220 Sqn 21.4.54. To the CAPMF 7.54 for mods before transfer to 42 Sqn 25.4.55 and recoded D. Moved with Squadron to St Mawgan 8.10.58 and allocated to Avro for Phase I mods 29.10.59. Completed 30.9.60, the aircraft was reissued to 42 Sqn 10.10.60 and recoded B. To DH Chester (Hawarden) 23.2.62 for Phase II update, completed 9.10.62. Loaned to MoA 9.10.62 and flown to Langar 22.10.62 for Tl work on Mod 1084 (reduction of interference of ILS by UHF by introduction of separate glide-path aerials). On completion of trials work 12.11.63 WL737 was retained at Langar until allocated to Avro Woodford 4.2.63 for Phase II1 modification work. Trials at high AuW conducted by the contractor at RAE Bedford 10.65-12.65 before WL737 was delivered to the A&AEE Boscombe Down 5.1.66 for official release clearance at maximum AuW. Returned to Woodford 7.1.66, but was back at Boscombe Down 25.1.66 for Phase III performance, handling and engineering assessment for CA Release. Completed 22.3.66 when WL737 was ferried back to Woodford. MoA loan ended 31.10.66 and aircraft was prepared for RAF service against Contract KD/L/091/CB6(a). Despatched to Ballykelly 3.12.66 and issued to 210 Sqn, coded Z. To Ballykelly Wing 2.67. Cat.3 repairs by HSA CWP 4.8.67 - 1.9.67 and 5.3.7 - 17.4.70. Transferred to 205 Sqn 1.8.70 and coded J. Returned to UK, arriving St Athan MU 7.10.71 and declared NEA the same day. Cat.5(Scrap) 31.8.73 and dumped at St Athan.

WL738 MR 2

• First flown 25.11.52 and A/Cn 15. I .53. Delivered to Hawarden 28.1.53 and 23MU Aldergrove 2.2.53. Underwent mods by Avro CWP 3.53 before issue to 240 Sqn 31.3.53. Uncoded. To CAPMF St Mawgan 18.2.54 for mods, returning to 240 Sqn. Transferred to 204 Sqn 11.8.54 and possibly coded T-R (if so, the individual letter was soon removed). Underwent mods 2 - 18.5.55. Transferred to HQ British Forces Arabian Peninsula 27.2.58 for issue to 37 Sqn 3.3.58. Coded T. Suffered Cat.3 damage 6.8.58 when tailwheel collapsed on landing at Khormaksar. Patched up and flown to UK 23.12.58 for repair/ mods by 49MU 1.59 - 3.59. Allocated to Avro 19.3.59 for Phase I modification, the work being completed 22.3.60. Reissued to 37 Sqn 14.4.60 and coded B. To DH Chester (Hawarden) for Phase II update 1.3.62, completed 18.10.62. Again reissued to 37 Sqn, arriving Khormaksar 31.10.62 and recoded D. To HSA 21.9.64 for Phase II1 update, on completion of which WL738 was delivered to 210 Sqn 30.11.66 and coded Y. Loaned to MinTech 6.3.67 and despatched to Boscombe Down 17.3.67 for flight trials of radio altimeter 7B (SRIM 3310). Returned to Ballykelly and joined Wing 27.4.67. remaining until sent to HSA Bitteswell 20.5.69 for mods. Returned to Ballykelly Wing 7.7.69, retaining the Y code when taken on 204 Sqn strength 10.70. To 5MU Kemble 1.1.71 for major servicing. returning to 204 Sqn 24.5.71 until the unit disbanded. To 5MU for LTS 19.4.72. Refurbished and issued to 8 Sqn 8.3.74 for pilot training. SoC 14.10.77 as Cat.5(Scrap) on reaching end of safe fatigue life, but scrapping instruction rescinded 21.10.77 when allocated maintenance serial 8567M and after internal stripping on useful spares, including engines, WL738 was mounted for display at Lossiemouth main entrance gate 5.4.78. Scrapped 1991.

WL739 MR 2/T.2

• First flown 9.12.52 and A/Cn 31.12.52. To 23MU 21. 1 .53, but retained on Avro charge for rectification 10.3.53. On completion was prepared for service and issued to 240 Sqn 31.3.53. Uncoded. Cat.3 repairs by 278MU on site 14.5.53 - 11.12.53. Transferred to 269 Sqn 12.12.53. To CAPMF St Mawgan 3-12.3.54 for mods and transferred to 204 Sqn 11.8.54 still uncoded. 'Special fitment' 6.4.55 - 4.5.55 and coded P by 5.57. Attached to 38 Sqn, Luqa, Malta, 27.4.58 possibly as W, although still on 204 Sqn strength until sent to Avro 12.58 for Phase I update. On completion delivered to 37 Sqn 20.12.59 and coded D. To Avro Langar 28.4.60 for Phase II conversion, which commenced 2.5.60 and was completed 17.4.61. The work included trials on 'bomb-shaped' wing-mounted air sampler ducts using the old RP mountings. The ducts had a nose cap that could be opened for a prescribed time and then sealed. The control panel was mounted on the starboard side of the fuselage over the main spar. WL739 was reissued to 204 Sqn 19.4.61 and again coded P. Sustained Cat.3 damage, which was repaired by HSA CWP 3-15.6.65, the aircraft remaining with 204 Sqn until allocated to HSA Langar for T.2 conversion. On completion allotted to MOTU 29.12.67 and delivered 3.1.68 (first T.2 in service). Coded S. To HSA Bitteswell for mods15.3.68 - 13.5.68 and Cat.3 25.7.69, the latter repaired by 71MU 28.7.69 - 7 8.6.9 Ferried to 5MU Kemble I .5.70 for removal of training equipment and then issued to the St Mawgan Gulf Detachment 4.8.70 as a PhaseIII aircraft. Arrived Sharjah 10.8.70 and transferred to 210 Sqn 23.10.70, recoded X. Allotted to the RAF Fire School at Catterick 1.11.71 and ferried to St Mawgan for removal of 'Column 9' equipment, arriving 17.11.71. Catterick allotment cancelled and delivered to Manston for fire-fighting training.

WL740 MR 2

• First flown 18.12.52 and A/Cn 26.1.53. Loaned to CS(A) and retained for development work on internal noise reduction and contractor's trials of long exhaust tail pipes. To 23MU 5.10.53 and issued to 204 Sqn 1.1.54 and possibly coded T-X. To CAPMF St Mawgan 3.2.54 for mods, returning to 204 Sqn 18.2.54. 'Special fitment' installed 26.4.55 - 18.5.55 and gunnery trials at the A&AEE 11 - 14.3.58, testing installation of Bren gun mounted in starboard beam. Attached to 38 Sqn Luqa 27.4.58 and subsequently ToC by unit as Y. To Safi, Malta, 18.12.59 for storage prior to allocation to Avro 15.3.60 for Phase I/II conversion. Completed 9.3.61, WL740 was issued to 38 Sqn 15.3.61 and coded U. To HSA Langar 15.3.67 for T.2 conversion, but the work was not completed, the aircraft being SoC 28.2.68 as Cat.5(Components).

WL741 MR 2/AEW.2

• First flown 18.12.52 and A/Cn 30.1.53. To 23MU 4.2.53 and prepared for issue. To 224 Sqn 20.5.53 and coded B-O. To CAPMF St Mawgan 1-11.3.54 for mods and underwent further mods 25.5.55 - 13.6.55, 21.7.56 - 13.8.56 and 25.2.5 - 15.4.57. To Avro 4.12.58 for PhaseI update 19.12.58, completed 4.12.59. Issued to 42 Sqn 7.12.59 and coded D. Cat.3 damage at Brawdy 9.7.60 was repaired by 49 MU 13.7.60-13.9.60 and WL741 returned to 42 Sqn. Transferred to 224 Sqn 11.60 and coded C until allocated to DH Chester (Hawarden) 12.61 for PhaseII conversion. Completed 26.7.62, the aircraft was prepared for despatch to 205 Sqn Changi, arriving 13.9.62 and subsequently coded H. To HSA Langar for Phase Ill modification 29.8.66 and on completion was reissued to 205 Sqn 20.11.67 and recoded F. Despatched to the UK on disbandment of unit, arriving 5MU Kemble 2.2.71 for storage. To HSA Bitteswell for AEW.2 conversion 4.72, first delivery to 8 Sqn 4.4.73. Subsequently named 'PC Knapweed'. Transferred with unit from Kinloss to Lossiemouth 17.8.73. To 60MU for mods 19.12.74, returning to 8 Sqn 13.1.75. Withdrawn from use early 1 98 1 and allocated to the Central Training Establishment, Manston. Flown to Manston 29.5.81 and allotted maintenance serial 8692M. Stripped of engines and other equipment during 6.81 and then quickly cremated.

WL742 MR 2

• First flown 23.12.52 and A/Cn 30.1.53. To 23MU 4.2.53 and issued to 206 Sqn 12.3.53. Coded B-Z. Declared Cat.3 6.7.53, repaired on site by Avro CWP 7.7.53 - 16.9.53. Transferred to 42 Sqn 1.7.54 and recoded A-C. Mods 13 - 30.6.55. Cat.3 damage to tail assembly during flapless landing 20.9.55 repaired by Avro CWP by 24.11.55, but WL742 not returned to 42 Sqn until 2.1.56. To Avro 5.6.59 for Phase I modifications, completed 28.4.60. To 224 Sqn 3.5.60 and coded Z until despatched to Avro 11.7.61 for Phase II update. Completed 28.5.62, the aircraft was issued to 203 Sqn 30.5.62 and coded H. A Cat.3 flying accident 5.12.62 resulted in on-site repairs by 23MU 7 - 21.12.62. More Cat.3 damage on 23.9.63 was repaired by 60MU 29.9.63-13.11.63, and damage on 29.11.65 was also dealt with by 60MU 7 - 13.12.65. To 204 Sqn 1.12.66 and recoded R. To Ballykelly Wing 2.67 still as R, but despatched to 27MU Shawbury 21.4.67 and declared NEA 23.5.67. Sold as Cat.5(Scrap) 26.6.68 to H.H. Bushell of London.

WL743 MR 2

• First flown 1.53 and A/Cn 30.1.53. Delivered to 23MU 4.2.53 and issued to 220 Sqn 16.3.53. Coded T-P. Transferred to 42 Sqn 1.7.54 and recoded A-F. Missing 11.1.55 and assumed to have collided with WG531 south-west of Ireland. Declared Cat.5(Missing) the same day.

WL744 MR 2

• First flown 15.1.53 and A/Cn 25.2.53. Delivered to 23MU 13.3.53 and prepared for issue. To 120 Sqn 21.4.53, remaining uncoded until 9.53, when it became A-G. To CAPMF 24.3.54 - 5.5.54 for mods. Transferred to 228 Sqn 5.11.54 apparently uncoded. 'Special fitment' installed 7 - 21.7.55. To 38MU 22.9.55 for storage. Transferred to 23MU 7.12.56, 5MU 7,7.57 and back to 23MU 10.9.57. Issued to 204 Sqn 13.9.57, remaining uncoded until transfer to 42 Sqn 22.8.58, when became B. To 49MU 23.2.59 for Phase I update, moving to 38 Sqn 4.7.59 on completion, again uncoded. To Avro 12.12.60 for Phase II modification, completed 31.1.62. To 37 Sqn 10.2.62 and coded B. Cat.3 damage 25.3.65 repaired on site by 60MU 29.3.65 - 6.4.65. Cat.3 again 18.1.66, repaired by Avro CWP 20.1.66-9,2.66. Declared Cat.5 20.10.66 at Ballykelly and transferred to Station Flight charge 1.11.66. SoC the same day and dumped at Ballykelly, where subsequently scrapped.

WL745 MR 2/AEW.2

• First flown 22.1.53 and A/Cn 27.2.53. To 23MU 11.3.53 and issued to 220 Sqn 30.3.53. Coded T-O. Transferred to 42 Sqn 1.7.54 and coded A-E. Modified 6 - 22.9.55 and suffered Cat.3 flying accident 20.6.56 when it landed heavily in poor visibility, resulting in the collapse of the tailwheel assembly and a fire in the rear fuselage. Repaired by Avro CWP 26.6.56 - 18.10.56. Transferred to 120 Sqn 5.11.56 and coded B. Allocated to Avro 18.7.58 for Phase I modification, completed 23.7.59. Issued to 204 Sqn 23.7.59 and coded M. To DH Chester (Hawarden) for Phase II update 18.5.61, the work being completed 9.1.62. Allocated to 205 Sqn, arriving Changi 24.2.62 and coded A. Cat.3 damage in flying accident 24.1.63. Repair completed 22.5.63. Further Cat.3 damage 6.10.65 was patched up and aircraft returned to UK 25.10.65 and allocated to HSA 4.11.65 for Phase II1 conversion. On completion issued to 204 Sqn 4.2.67, immediately transferred to Ballykelly Wing strength as O. Declared Cat.3 1.6.67, the damage repaired by HSA CWP 8.6.67-27.7.67, On 18.3.70 WL745 was flown to Woodford for performance checks to establish a base against which to measure the effect of the proposed AN/APS 20 radar fitment. Trials completed 25.3.70 and aircraft stored at Woodford pending decision. Allotted to MoA Air Fleet 12.8.70 for TI of Mod 1493 (AEW conversion), the first flight in the new configuration 30.9.71 (still coded O). To Boscombe Down 5.4.72 for official CA Release clearance, which was completed 26.2.73. To HSA Bitteswell 2.3.73 for completion to production standard, the aircraft being delivered as an AEW.2 to 5MU Kemble 30.7.73 for repainting. To 8 Sqn, Lossiemouth,17.9.73 and subsequently named 'Sage'. To HSA Bitteswell 10.10.77 for major overhaul, returning to 8 Sqn 28.9.78. Withdrawn from use 1981 and allocated to the RAF Fire Fighting and Safety School, Catterick. Flown to Catterick 13.7.81 and allotted the maintenance serial 8698M. Burnt 1983.

WL746 MR 2

• First flown 28.1.53 and A/Cn 27.2.53. To 23MU 11.3.53 and issued to 269 Sqn 8.4.53. Remained uncoded, the aircraft crashing into the sea off the coast of Argyll, Scotland, 11.12.53 in position 5630N 0546W while on an anti-submarine exercise (240 Sqn crew killed). Salvaged wreckage showed signs of a heavy impact but no evidence found on local high ground. SoC Cat.5(Scrap) 12.12.53.

WL747 MR 2/AEW.2

• First flown 5.2.53 and A/Cn 27.2.53. To 23MU 11.3.53 and prepared for issue to 269 Sqn 3.4.53. Uncoded. To 204 Sqn 11.8.54 and reportedly ended T-W. To 42 Sqn 11.6.58 and coded B. To Avro for Phase I modification 18.9.58. Completed 30.9.59 and issued to 210 Sqn, coded V. To Avro Langar 18.4.61 for Phase II update, completed 22.10.61. To 37 Sqn 4.11.61 and coded C. Allocated to HSA 29.10.61 for Phase III conversion, arriving Langar 8.5.64. On completion despatched to 210 Sqn 12.9.66 and coded X. To Ballykelly Wing 2.67 still as X. Cat.3 damage sustained 30.1.69, repaired by HSA CWP 6.2.69-30.3.69. Transferred to 204 Sqn 10.70, retaining X code. To 5MU 17.12.70 for major overhaul prior to ferry to HSA Bitteswell 2.2.71 for AEW.2 conversion. First flown as such 11.1.72 (first production conversion). Returned to 5MU 8.2.72 for repainting and delivered to Lossiemouth 16.3.72 for radar installation. Ferried to Kinloss 11.4.72 for 8 Sqn, receiving the name 'Florence'. Transferred to Lossiemouth 16.8.73 with unit. To HSA Bitteswell 20.9.78 for major refurbishing, returning to 8 Sqn 9.11.79. Current Paphos Airport, Cyprus.

WL748 MR 2

• First flown 6.2.53 and A/Cn 27.2.53. Delivered to 23MU 11.3.53 with WL747. Issued to 240 Sqn 8.4.53 and possibly coded P. Transferred to 204 Sqn 9.8.54 and reportedly coded T-S. Underwent mods 20.10.55-14.11.55, remaining with 204 Sqn until 11.11.58, when moved over to 269 Sqn. also at Ballykelly. Remained on strength when unit renumbered 210 Sqn 1.12.58, but uncoded. To 204 Sqn 10.10.59 until allocated to Avro 15.1.60 for Phase I modifications. Completed 10.1.61, WL748 was issued to 210 Sqn the following day and coded X. To Avro for Phase II update between 10.62 and 5.63, when was again on 210 Sqn strength, still as X. To HSA Langar 21.4.66 for Phase III conversion before going to RRE Pershore 1967 for infrared scanner trials. Sent to 205 Sqn 20.10.67 and coded C. To the Ballykelly Wing 13.1.69 and coded R. To the RRE 6.69 for removal of infrared equipment, returning to Ballykelly and transferring to 204 Sqn 10.70. To the Majunga Detachment Support Unit (part of 204 Sqn) 22.3.71, but returned to the UK 2.72 when the Beira blockade lifted and rejoined 204 Sqn at Honington. To Catterick for the RAF Fire School 8.5.72 and slowly destroyed.

WL749 MR 2

• First flown 18.2.53 and A/Cn 25.3.53. To 23MU 30.3.53 and issued to 120 Sqn 20.4.53. Probably not coded before WL749 was landed short of the runway at Aldergrove 14.5.53 and the port undercarriage collapsed. The aircraft slewed and hit the runway controller's caravan. Damaged beyond repair and was SoC Cat.5(Components) 14.5.53.

WL750 MR 2/T.2

• First flown 23.2.53 and A/Cn 25.3.53. To 23MU 30.3.53 with WL749 and after preparation was issued to 269 Sqn 17.4.53. Uncoded. Mods at CAPMF 1.54 - 2.54 and transferred to 204 Sqn 2.7.54, remaining uncoded. Mods 23.6.55 - 14.7.55 and the installation of Autolycus completed at CCMC 12.55. To 120 Sqn 18.10.56 and coded 1. To 269 Sqn 30.10.58 and was again uncoded, remaining on strength when unit renumbered 210 Sqn 1.12.58. Allocated to Avro 12.5.59 for Phase I modification, completed 13.4.60. To 224 Sqn 19.4.60 and coded W. To Avro Langar for Phase Il work 19.9.61. Completed 21.6.62, WL750 was despatched to 203 Sqn 25.6.62 and coded F. Damage caused by a Cat.3 flying accident 2.1.63 was repaired by Avro CWP 30.1.63 - 29.3.63. More Cat.3 damage 30.12.64 was repaired by 60MU, the aircraft being returned to 203 Sqn 15.2.65. To 204 Sqn 12.66, when partial centralized servicing already introduced and so retained code F. Allocated to HSA Langar for T.2 conversion 11.1.67, the work completed by 27.3.68, when WL750 was despatched to MOTU and coded T. To 5MU Kemble 24.8.70 for removal of training equipment and issued to 205 Sqn 25.11.70 as a Phase III aircraft, coded H. Allocated to the RAF Fire School at Catterick 15.10.71, the aircraft being ferried from Changi to St Mawgan, arriving 20.10.71 for removal of 'Column 9' equipment. A change of plan then resulted in WL750 being delivered to Manston for the Central Training Establishment.

WL751 MR 2

• First flown 5.3.53 and A/Cn 31.3.53. To Hawarden 10.4.53, flying on to 23MU Aldergrove the same day. Issued to 224 Sqn 1.5.53 and coded B-L. To CAPMF St Mawgan 10.2.54 - 2.3.54 and more mods carried out 29.8.55 - 20.9.55 and 23.8.56 - 11.10.56. Recoded L in 1956 and 3 for the Squadron tour of South America 3.57 - 4.57. To 49MU 30.7.57 for mods that were completed 9.57, WL751 returning to 224 Sqn 30.9.57 still coded L. To Avro for Phase I modification 28.1.59, completed 13.1.60, the aircraft being issued to 204 Sqn five days later and coded N. Allocated to Avro 30.6.61 for Phase II conversion, the work being completed by 29.3.62, when WL751 was despatched to 210 Sqn and coded U. Cat.3 damage 13.3.64 was repaired by 23MU 16-24.3.64. To HSA Langar 23.11.65 for Phase III modifications on completion of which the aircraft was allotted to HSA 8.2.67 for TI work on stall warning devices. The trials were completed during 4.67 and the aircraft despatched to the Ballykelly Wing (nominally 204 Sqn) 25.5.67 and coded M. To HSA Bitteswell for mods 8.7.69, returning to the Ballykelly Wing on completion 17.9.69. Transferred to 5MU 22.6.70 for a major overhaul WL751 was issued to 204 Sqn 18.11.70. To the Majunga Detachment Support Unit 31.3.71, returning to the parent unit, 204 Sqn, at Honington 2.72. Sold to Shackleton Aviation 4.5.72 and delivered to Baginton the same day. Remained parked on the airfield and sold for scrap when Shackleton Aviation moved to Hurn. Airframe temporarily rescued by Hawker Siddeley Aviation and believed earmarked for the Confederate Air Force, but sale fell through because the engines were time expired. Efforts to find a purchaser who would preserve the aircraft properly were unavailing and during January 1975 it was finally cut up for scrap.

WL752 MR 2

• First flown 7.3.53 and A/Cn 31.3.53. Delivered to 23MU 10.4.53 and issued to 120 Sqn 23.4.53 Uncoded until 10.53, when it became A-H. Suffered Cat.3 flying accident 16.3.54, when the fuselage was damaged by a sonobuoy hang-up. Repaired on site by 27MU 17.3.54 - 4.6.54. Returned to 120 Sqn, but transferred to 224 Sqn 27.8.54 and coded B-T. Cat.3 damage occurred 1.10.54 when the pilot undershot and broke off the tailwheels on ramp at end of Gibraltar's runway. Repaired on site by 60MU 7.10.54 - 11.2.55, the aircraft also undergoing mods 20.4.55 - 10.5.55 and 19.3.56-1.5.56. Recoded T in 1956. More mods were completed by Avro CWP 7.12.56 - 3.1.57, WL752 returning to 224 Sqn 25.2.57. Recoded 4 for the South American tour 3.57 - 4.57, reverting to T later in year. To Avro 9.6.59 for Phase I modification, completed 19.5.60. To 37 Sqn 30.5.60 and briefly coded D before becoming A 9.60. WL752 remained at Khormaksar until 21.3.62, when allotted to DH Chester (Hawarden) for Phase II conversion. Completed 11.12.62, WL752 went to the RAF Handling Squadron 1.2.63 before being ferried to 23MU 14.5.63. Reissued to 37 Sqn 9.9.64 and coded D. Cat.3 damage 29.6.65 rectified by a CWP 8-23.7.56 as was more Cat.3 damage 15.11.66. Thc repair was completed 9.1.67, the aircraft remaining in Aden until allotted to 27MU Shawbury 9.9.67. Declared NEA 13.9.67 and sold as scrap to H.H.Bushell of London 7.10.68.

WL753 MR 2

• First flown 16.3.53 and A/Cn 31.3.53. To 23MU 10.4.53 and issued to 224 Sqn 12.5.53, becoming BQ. To CAPMF St Mawgan 9.3.54 - 4.4.54 and more mods carried out 4-10.2.55, 18.10.55 - 9.11.55 and 7-26.9.56. Recoded 2 for South American tour 3.57 - 4.57, reverting to Q later in the year. Further mods 8.1 1.57 - 6.12.57 and 28.3.58 - 1.5.58. To Avro 10.6.59 for Phase I update, completed 31.5.60. Allotted to RAF Eastleigh Station Flight, Kenya, for storage/servicing 30.6.60 prior to issue to 37 Sqn 24.8.60, when probably coded B (although reported as Q). To UK 2.12.61 for Phase II modifications by DH Chester (Hawarden) 6.12.61 until 31.7.62. Delivered to 203 Sqn 3.8.62 and coded G. Transferred to 204 Sqn 12.66 and recoded Q. ToC by Ballykelly Wing 2.67, still as Q, but despatched to 27MU 24.5.67 and declared NEA the following day. Broken up 12.68 and sold as scrap 12.3.69.

WL754 MR 2/AEW.2

• First flown 18.3.52 and A/Cn 24.4.53. To Hawarden 7.5.53 and on to 23MU Aldergrove the following day. Allocated to MEAF and prepared for delivery by the Overseas Ferry Unit, Benson, 26.8.53. ToC by 137MU Safi 1.9.53 and issued to 37 Sqn 4.9.53 coded A. Suffered a Cat.3 flying accident 7.9.53 when the pilot touched down heavily short of the Luqa runway, damaged the tailwheels, overshot and made a successful landing on the mainwheels. To 137MU 8.9.53 for repair and reissue to 37 Sqn 14.12.53 still coded A. To CAPMF St Mawgan 1 1.3.54 for mods, returning 31.3.54. To 137MU Safi 8.1 1.54 for major servicing (probably at Langar) Tssued to 38 Sqn 27.1.55 and coded Z. Underwent mods 10.2.55 - 24.3.55. Another Cat.3 flying accident occurred 14.11.55 when the pilot made a heavy landing and detached the tailwheels. WL754 was transferred to Safi 21.11.55 for repair and on completion the aircraft was reallocated to 37 Sqn 13.10.56 as G. Mods and Cat.3 repairs by Avro CWP 7.1.57 - 15.3.57, the aircraft being transferred to 38 Sqn 25.6.57 and recoded V. To 37 Sqn 1.8.57 for move to Khommaksar, remaining until allocated to Avro 15.10.59 for Phase I modification, the work commencing 22.10.59. Completed 15.9.60, WL754 was delivered to 42 Sqn the following day and coded F. Damage caused 22.11.61 by Cat.3 flying accident was repaired on site and the aircraft transferred to Avro Langar for Phase II update. This was completed 15.6.62, the aircraft returning to 42 Sqn 18.6.62 still as F. Underwent further Cat.3 repair 6-25.11.63 and allocated to HSA Langar 25.2.66 for Phase II1 conversion. On completion was despatched to 205 Sqn 30.4.67 and coded J. Allocated to the Ballykelly Wing 6.1.69, but the move cancelled and WL754 ferried to HSA Bitteswell 17.1.69 on loan for TI of the Ferranti airstream direction detector (ADD) equipment (improved stall warning). Transferred to MinTech loan 7.7.69 for flight trials, WL754 arriving Woodford 13.8.69. On completion of trials 30.9.69 the aircraft was despatched to the Ballykelly Wing 13.10.69 and recoded H. To 204 Sqn 10.70, still as H, but ferried to 5MU for storage 2.4.71. Delivered to HSA Bitteswell 22.3.72 for AEW.2 conversion. First flew as such 9.72 and sent to 5MU 18.10.72 for repainting prior to delivery to Lossiemouth 21.11.72 for radar installation. To 8 Sqn 29.11.72 and named 'Paul '. To Kinloss 20.12.72, but returned to Lossiemouth the next day and was finally delivered 5.1.73. To Lossiemouth with unit 14.8.73. Withdrawn 1.81 and allocated to Valley for crash rescue/fire practice. Flown from Lossiemouth to Valley 22.1.81 and allotted maintenance serial 8665M, but retained by unit following a local 'Save the Shack' campaign, and put on display.

WL755 MR 2

• First flown 30.3.53 and A/Cn 30.4.53. To 23MU 5.5.53 and allocated to MEAF. Delivered via the Overseas Ferry Unit, Benson, 5.8.53 and accepted by 137MU Safi 27.8.53. Issued to 37 Sqn 31.8.53 and coded H. To CAPMF St Mawgan 3-23 .3 .54 for mods and 137MU 1.5.54 for major servicing (probably at Langar). Returned to 37 Sqn 19.6.54. Autolycus 'special fitment' 29.3.55 - 21.4.55 at 49MU completed at the CCMC St Mawgan 26.4.55. At Safi 20.2.56 - 15.3.56 for further mods. Returned to 37 Sqn, but transferred to 38 Sqn 8.7.56 and recoded U. To Avro for Phase I modifications 12.12.57, completed 10.2.59. Returned to 38 Sqn 6.3.59 still coded U. To Avro 6.3.61 for Phase II update, completed 30.8.61. Issued to 224 Sqn 4.9.61 and recoded T, remaining at Gibraltar until allotted to HSA Langar for Phase II1 conversion 22.12.65. On completion issued to the Ballykelly Wing 28.3.67 and recoded L. Cat.3 damage 29.4.70 repaired by 60MU 18.5.70 - 10.7.70, and WL755 was transferred to 204 Sqn 10.70 retaining L code. To Majunga Detachment Support Unit 22.7.71, but had returned to the parent unit,204 Sqn, Honington, by 2.72. Ferried to Catterick 9.5.72 for use by the RAF Fire School. Completely burnt out by 12.77.

WL756 MR 2/AEW.2

• First flown 1.4.53 and A/Cn 30.4.53. Tu 23MU 5.5.53 and prepared for issue to MEAF Delivered to Luqa by the Overseas Ferry Unit, Benson, 28.7.53 and after acceptance checks issued to 37 Sqn 5.8.53 and coded G. To CAPMF St Mawgan 1-19.2.54 for mods and on return to 37 Sqn damaged in Cat.3 flying accident 7.5.54 when the pilot stalled the aircraft on final approach and the tailwheel assembly collapsed on touchdown in the undershoot. Transferred to 137MU Safi for repairs the same day. A 'special fitment' was made 21.10.55 - 5.12.55 after which WL756 was transferred to 38 Sqn 16.12.55 and recoded T. To 49MU for mods 9.10.57 - 19.11.57, returning to 38 Sqn and suffered Cat.3 damage in flying accident 19.3.58. presumably at Akrotiri because it was allocated to 103MU for repairs the same day. Probably also modified to Phase I standard before allotment to HQ British Forces Arabian Peninsula 30.4.59. Issued to 37 Sqn 18.7.59 coded C. To Avro 23.1.61 for Phase II mods, completed 30.4.62. Allocated to FEAF and issued to 205 Sqn 11.6.62 still as C. To HSA 30.10.66 for Phase III mods at Langar and on completion went to the Ballykelly Wing 26.10.67 and was coded V. To HSA for mods 29.10.69 - 10.12.69 when returned to Ballykelly Wing. To 204 Sqn 10.70, retaining code V until going to 5MU 18.1.71 for preparation for despatch to HSA Bitteswell 2.4.71 for AEW.2 conversion. Flown as AEW.2 2.3.72 and redelivered to 5MU 22.3.72 for repainting and acceptance. Flown to Kinloss 4.5.72 and issued to 8 Sqn the following day. To Lossiemouth 19.5.72 for installation of radar before return to Kinloss as 'Mr Rusty' 21.6.72. Transferred to Lossiemouth with unit 17.8.73. To 60MU for modification 29.4.75, but returned to 8 Sqn 5.75. To HSA Bitteswell for major overhaul/mods 7.3.79, returning to 8 Sqn 1980. Currently at St Mawgan on the Station Fire Dump and can be seen from coast road (13,676 hrs at 9.3.89).

WL757 MR 2/AEW.2

• First flown 10.4.53 and A/Cn 30.4.53. To Hawarden 7.5.53, continuing to 23MU Aldergrove the next day. Allocated to MEAF 28.7.53 and delivered by the Overseas Ferry Unit, Benson. To 37 Sqn 5.8.53 and coded D. To CAPMF St Mawgan 19.2.53 for mods, returning to Luqa 3.3.53. To 137MU Safi 20.5.54 for Cat.3 repair, completed 3.6.54, and to Avro Langar 18.9.54 - 6.11.54 for a major servicing. A 'special fitment' installed 22.6.55 - 11.7.55 followed by further mods at Safi 9.1.56 23.2.56, the aircraft returning to 37 Sqn three days later still as D. On 8.7.57 WL757 went into temporary storage with 137MU until issued to 38 Sqn and probably coded U. To Avro 29.9.58 for Phase I modifications, completed 29.10.59. To 210 Sqn the following day and coded W. To DH Chester (Hawarden) 27.3.61 for Phase II update, completed 5.12.61. Issued to Z24 Sqn 15.12.61 and coded C, remaining until allocated to HSA Langar 30.3.66 for Phase III modifications. On completion allotted to FEAF and delivered to 205 Sqn 25.5.67. Coded K on arrival. Ferried back to the UK, arriving St Mawgan 12.12.70 for customs clearance before delivery to 5MU Kemble two days later. To HSA Bitteswell 26.8.71 for AEW.2 conversion, first flying in the revised configuration 6.72. To 5MU for repainting 3.7.72 and delivered to Lossiemouth 25.8.72 for radar installation. ToC 8 Sqn 29.8.72 and named 'Brian', moving over to Kinloss 6.9.72. To 60MU 2.5.73 for mods, returning to 8 Sqn and moved to Lossiemouth with the unit 17.8.73. Loaned to MoD (PE) 7.12.73 for service trials and CA clearance of SRIM 3825 (AMTI facility for AN/APS 20F radar) by 'B' Squadron, A&AEE Boscombe Down. Part of trial conducted at Lossiemouth 18 - 20.12.73 and aircraft returned to 8 Sqn I .3.74. To HSA Bitteswell 25.10.79 for re-sparring and major servicing, returning to 8 Sqn 1981. Current (13,932 hrs at 9.3.89) at Paphos Airport, Cyprus.

WL758 MR 2

• First flown 17.4.53 and A/Cn 14.5.53. To 23MU 18.5.53 and issued to 120 Sqn 22.6.53. Initially uncoded, becoming A- 9.53. To CAPMF St Mawgan 24.3.54 - 5.4.54 for mods. Transferred to 224 Sqn 8.9.54 and recoded S. To 49MU for mods 22.9.55 - 13.10.55 and more mods completed 27.4.56 - 21.7.56. Recoded 1 for 224 Sqn tour of South America 3.5 - 4.57, reverting to S later in the year. To Avro 14.11.58 for Phase I modification, completed 10.11.59. To 38 Sqn 26.11.59 and coded Y until allotted to Avro 2.5.61 for Phase II update, completed 15.12.60. Returned to 38 Sqn and recoded V. To HSA Langar for Phase III conversion 21.10.66. On completion delivered to the Ballykelly Wing 15.11.67 and coded W. To 204 Sqn 10.70, retaining W coding, and moved with unit to Honington 4.71. Ferried to Catterick 19.5.72 for the RAF Fire School and slowly destroyed.

WL759 MR 2

• First flown 24.4.53 and A/Cn 26.5.53. To Hawarden 28.5.53 and on to 23MU for storage the following day. Issued to 37 Sqn 2.9.53 and coded B. To CAPMF St Mawgan 30.3.54 (direct from JASS detachment at Ballykelly), returning to 37 Sqn on completion of mods 15.4.54. Underwent Cat.3 repairs at 137MU Safi 19.5.54 - 14.6.54 when the rear fuselage was strained during a heavy landing. Replaced as B 11.54, WL759 underwent mods 6 - 19.7.55 on completion of repairs and returned to 37 Sqn 2X 7.55 as J. Suffered more Cat.3 damage in another heavy landing 26.11.55, again to 137MU for repair. On completion back with 37 Sqn as J until 5.6.57, when despatched to 49MU for 'special fitment'. On completion to 204 Sqn 27.8.57, uncoded. To 49MU 27.8.58 for Phase I update, completed 24.2.59. Issued to 38 Sqn 10.3.59 and coded V. To Avro Langar 3.1.62 for Phase II modifications. On 30.1.63 WL759 was loaned to the MoA and remained at Langar for Tl of Mod 1103 (carriage of Mk 44 torpedo), Mod 1096 (intercom changes) and Mod 1079 (Dowty Rotol tailwheel jack redesign). To the A&AEE Boscombe Down 22.5.63 for official flight trials of Mod 1103 by 'B' Sqn. An allocation to 23MU 17.12.63 was cancelled and WL759 was retained at Boscombe for carriage and release trials of the modified Marker Marine No.4 Mk I and Underwater Sound Signal Mk 400. On completion the aircraft was delivered to ASWDU. Ballykelly, 18.2.64 and coded B. Cat.3 damage 28.6.66 was repaired by HSA CWP, returning to ASWDU 21.7.66. Allotted to FEAF 1.8.66 and ferried to Changi for 205 Sqn, retaining code B.Recoded N 1.68 and as the last Phase II aircraft in service with 205 Sqn, WL759 took part in a 'goodbye' formation on 8.11.68 flanked by E and D. SoC Cat.5(Components) 11.11.68 the aircraft was broken up at Changi 1969.

WL785 MR 2

• First flown 10.5.53 and A/Cn 26.5.53. To Hawarden 28.5.53 and on to 23MU the following day for storage. Issued to 37 Sqn 2.9.53 and coded E. To CAPMF 1.54 for mods, returning to Luqa 5.2.54. Received Cat.3 damage 16.9.54 and transferred to 137MU Safi 21.9.54 for repair. Returned to 37 Sqn 9.2.55 still as E, but allocated to Avro Langar 7.4.55 for major servicing, completed 19.7.55. WL785 was returned to 37 Sqn 25.7.55 and underwent further modification 16.4.57 - 6.6.57. Transferred to 38 Sqn 8.7.57 and coded W. To Avro 10.4.58 for Phase I update. completed 4.6.59. To 42 Sqn 5.6.59 and coded C. To DH Chester (Hawarden) 28.11.60 for Phase II modification, completed 30.6.61. Retumed to 42 Sqn 5.7.61 and recoded A. Cat.3 damage sustained 18.12.63 was repaired by 71 MU on site. Completed 3.2.64, WL785 remained with 42 Sqn until allotted to the MoA Air Fleet 7.4.65. Arrived at Boscombe Down 12.4.65 and was used for the clearance of carriage and release of directional sonobuoy Types 9003 and 11514. The aircraft returned to St Mawgan on completion of tests 27.5.65, but on 1.6.65 was delivered to HSA Langar for Phase II1 conversion, completed 25.1.67. To 204 Sqn 27.1.67 and coded P. Transferred to Ballykelly Wing 2.67, retaining code until departed for HSA Bitteswell 3.4.68 for mods. On completion returned to Ballykelly 30.5.68 still as P, reverting to 204 Sqn 10.70. Ferricd to St Athan 5.4.71 and allotted to the Central Training Establishment, arriving Manston 19.5.71. SoC Cat.5(Components) 30.6.71.

WL786 MR 2

• First flown 12.5.53 and A/Cn 28.5.53. To Hawarden 10,6.53 and on to 23MU Aldergrove two days later for storage. Allotted to MEAF and delivered to 137MU Safi 9.9.53 for service preparation. To 37 Sqn 26.9.53 and coded F. To CAPMF St Mawgan 1-12.3.54 and 137MU 23.8.54 - 7.10.54 for mods and a 'special fitment' 26.5.55 - 16.6.55, but otherwise with 37 Sqn until despatched to Avro 11.3.58 for Phase I modification, completed 23.4.59. Issued to 38 Sqn 8.5.59 and coded S. To Avro 23.5.61 for Phase II update, completed 19.3.62. Allotted to FEAF and delivered to 205 Sqn Changi 21.4.62 and coded B. Cat.3 damage 16.3.65 was repaired locally, WL786 returning to 205 Sqn 10.8.65. To HSA Langar 1.8.66 for Phase Il modifications. on completion of which the aircraft returned to 205 Sqn 23.8.67 and was recoded E. Ditched in Indian Ocean 5.11.67 120 nm west of Lhokkrket, Sumatra, en route Gan - Changi following an engine failure and subsequent fire. SoC 6.11.67.

WL787 MR 2/T.2

• First flown 18.5.53 and A/Cn 23.6.53. To Hawarden 29.6.53 and on to 23MU for storage the following day. Allotted to MEAF and ferried to 137MU Saf 18.9.53. Issued to 38 Sqn the same day and coded S. To CAPMF St Mawgan 6.2.54 - 2.3.54 for mods and to Safi/Avro Langar for major servicing 24.5.54 - 23.7.54, when returned to 38 Sqn. Autolycus 'special fitment' by 49MU Colerne 2.3.55 - 13.4.55 completed by CCMC St Mawgan and more mods carried out at 49MU 13.3.56 - 23.4.56. Despatched to Avro for Phase I Tl and CA Release trials 12.2.57 - 19.8.57. On completion returned to Malta and STS at 137MU Safi before reissue to 38 Sqn 11.3.58 and recoded U. Transferred to 37 Sqn 19.9.58 and recoded B. Allotted to Avro 29.1.60 for Phase II update, completed 31.1.61. To 210 Sqn 6.2.61 and coded T. Transferred to 204 Sqn 24.10.66 and coded J until ferried to HSA Langar 14.12.66 for T.2 conversion. On completion issued to MOTU 29.2.68 and coded U. Cat.3 damage 11.2.69 was repaired on site by 71MU, WL787 remaining with MOTU until despatched to 5MU Kemble 2.6.70 for removal of training equipment. Issued to the St Mawgan Gulf Detachment 26.8.70 as a Phase III aircraft, transferring to 210 Sqn 27.10.70 and coded W. Cat.3 damage sustained 14.12.70 was repaired on site at Sharjah, the aircraft returning to 210 Sqn 17.2.71.An allocation to the Fire School at Catterick 1.11.71 was cancelled and the aircraft was delivered to Kinloss 19.11.71. Officially transferred to 8 Sqn for crew training 1.1.72 and named 'Mr MacHenry'. To Lossiemouth 23.5.72, returning to Kinloss 2.6.72. Cat.3 damage in a flying accident 25.1.73 was repaired on site, the aircraft returning to 8 Sqn 15.5.73. Renamed 'Dylan'. To Lossiemouth with unit 16.8.73. When the remaining fatigue life was expended WL787 was grounded and allocated to Lossiemouth 3.1.74 for fire-fighting practice. Broken up by 3.74 and subsequently destroyed.

WL788 MR 2

• First flown 4.6.53 and A/Cn 30.6.53. Delivered to 23MU 8.7.53 for storage. Allotted to MEAF and ferried out to 137MU Safi 2.9.53. Issued to 37 Sqn 11.9.53 and coded C. To CAPMF 26.3.54 - 7.5.54 for mods. To 137MU/Avro Langar 15.7.54-2.9.54 for mods and sent to 49MU Colerne 2-19.5.55 for Autolycus 'special fitment', completed by CCMC St Mawgan before return to 37 Sqn 5.55. Cat.3 damage sustained in a heavy landing 2.7.55 was reassessed Cat.4, but the repair work was completed by 137MU Safi between 15.7.55 and 26.4.56, when WL788 was returned to 37 Sqn. Despatched to 49MU Colerne 28.5.56 for mods, the aircraft being collected 6.7.56. Transferred from 37 to 38 Sqn 8.7.57 and coded R. To Safi for mods 16.10.57 - 30.11.57 after which remained with 38 Sqn until delivered to Avro 29.9.58 for Phase I modification, completed 8.10.59. Reissued to 38 Sqn 24.10.59 still as R. On 10.8.60 the undercarriage collapsed during engine starts at Luqa, the Cat.3 damage being repaired at the Maintenance Base, Safi. Soon after completion WL788 was allocated to DH Chester (Hawarden) 16.11.61 for Phase II update, completed 15.6.62. The aircraft was issued to 42 Sqn 20.6.62 and coded F. Despatched to 23MU 29.11.62 for storage. Delivered to Ballykelly 19.11.64 and ToC by 210 Sqn the following day and coded Z. Cat.3 damage sustained 2.2.66 was repaired by HSA CWP from 10.3.66 and on completion the aircraft was ferried out to Aden for 37 Sqn 10.66. Coded B. On disbandment of the unit WL788 was allotted to 27MU and arrived at Shawbury 12.9.67. Declared NEA the same day, the aircraft was SoC Cat.5(Scrap) and broken up 11.68. Sold as scrap 28.3.69.

WL789 MR 2

• First flown 10.6.53 and A/Cn 30.6.53. To 38MU Llandow 15.7.53 and fitted with MAD in a tail boom by Avro CWP 7.53 - 8.53. Despatched to the CAPMF St Mawgan 10.9.53 for further mods before issue to ASWDU 30.9.53. Coded F-D for MAD trials. To CAPMF 18-22.2.54 for further mods.Sustained Cat.3 damage 14.9.55 repaired on site by 49MU, completed 15.11.55. WL789 was back with ASWDU three days later, but underwent further modification 13.1.56 - 7.2.56 and 7.3.58 - 9.4.58, when the MAD boom was removed. To 49MU 8.12.58 for Phase I modification as a standard aircraft and on completion issued to 224 Sqn 13.4.59 and coded W. To Avro Langar 29.11.60 for Phase II update, the work being completed 31.1.62. Returned to 224 Sqn 2.2.62 and recoded A. To 38 Sqn 18.10.66 and coded V. Transferred to 205 Sqn 23.1.67 and coded H. Allocated to the UK and arrived at 27MU Shawbury 24.8.67. declared NEA the same day. Cat.5(Scrap) and broken up 12.68. Sold as scrap 28.3.69.

WL790 MR 2/AEW.2

• WL790 IN AMERICAN SKIES
• First flown 23.6.53 and A/Cn 17.7.53. To 38MU Llandow 7.8.53 and stored. Prepared for issue to 240 Sqn 6.10.53. Uncoded. Port wing damaged when aircraft struck hangar while taxying at St Eval 31.3.54. Cat.3 damage repaired by Avro CWP and on completion aircraft transferred to 204 Sqn 9.8.54, nominally coded T-T, but probably only carried unit marking T. Autolycus installed at 49MU Coleme 18.5.55 - 7.6.55 and completed by CCMC St Mawgan, Wl,790 returning to 204 Sqn 10.7.55. Suffered Cat.3 damage when the aircraft was landed heavily in the undershoot at Aston Down 9.8.57. Repaired on site by Avro CWP 23.8.57 - 30.1.58. WL790 returned to 204 Sqn 10.2.58, but was again damaged 31.7.58 when the tailwheel assembly broke off during landing at Ballykelly, causing Cat.3 damage. Repaired by Avro CWP 27.8.58 - 6.11.58 and transferred to 269 Sqn I I .11.58 and to 210 Sqn 1.12.58 still uncoded. To 49MU 7.1.59 for Phase I modification, completed 16.4.59. Returned to 210 Sqn 12.5.59 and coded X. To Avro Langar 10.1.61 for Phase II update, completed 28.5.62, and allocated to FEAF. Issued to 205 Sqn 21.6.62 coded E. Allotted to HSA 29.8.66 for Phase III modification, arriving Langar 10.66. On completion 8.67 the aircraft was returned to 205 Sqn and recoded D. Cat.3 repair 21.3.68 - 16.5.68, WL790 remaining with 205 Sqn until allocated to 5MU, arriving Kemble 4.1.71 for temporary storage. Delivered to HSA Bitteswell 30.9.71 for AEW.2 conversion, flying in the new configuration 7.72. To 5MU 3.8.72 for repainting and delivered to Lossiemouth 19.9.72 for radar installation. ToC 8 Sqn Kinloss 20.9.72. To RRE Pershore 2.1.73 for flight trials of Marconi (AMTI), which commenced 1.3.73 and were completed 11.5.73, when the aircraft returned to Kinloss and named 'Mr MacHenry'. To Lossiemouth 15.8.73 with unit on transfer. To 60MU for mods 19.3.75 - 10.4.75, returning to 8 Sqn until sent to HSA Bitteswell 1980 for re-sparring and refurbishing. Returned to 8 Sqn Lossiemouth 28.7.81 (the last on contract). Current (13,891 hrs at 9.3.89). Sold at Auction and currently at Blaine in the Usof A operated by Amjet

WL791 MR 2

• First flown 16.6.52 and loaned to A.V. Roe & Co for display at the Paris Air Show. A/Cn 30.6.53. To 23MU 18.8.53 for storage. Allotted to MEAF 15.12.53 and issued to 38 Sqn 22.12.53. To 137MU for storage 1.3.54 until issued to 37 Sqn 17.11.54 as A. Underwent Autolycus mods at 49MU/CCMC 14.6.55 - 7.7.55, when returned to 37 Sqn. Transferred to 38 Sqn 8.7.57 and coded Q. More mods 14.2.58 - 14.4.58 (probably Phase I), after which returned to 38 Sqn until again in storage at Safi 22.12.59. Allocated to Avro Langar 25.1.60 for Phase II modernization, completed 16.2.61. To 210 Sqn 23.2.61 and coded V. Cat.3 damage repaired on site by 23MU 22.3.62 - 16.4.62 and 27.6.66 - 26.7.66. Transferred from 210 Sqn to Ballykelly Wing 13.2.67, retaining V code until despatched to 27MU Shawbury 23.5.67. Declared NEA the same day and later Cat.5(Scrap). Broken up 12.68 and sold as scrap 28.3.69.

WL792 MR 2

• First flown 1.7.53 and A/Cn 17.7.53. Delivered to 38MU 20.8.53 for STS. Issued to 204 Sqn 5.1.54 and nominally coded T-V (but probably only the unit code T painted on the aircraft). To 49MU for Autolycus 'special fitment' 14.3.55 - 6.4.55, completed by CCMC 19.4.55, when returned to 204 Sqn until despatched to 38MU for storage 30.9.55. To 5MU 22.1.57 and prepared for issue to 224 Sqn 30.3.57. Subsequently coded K. Modified 29.5.57 - 27.6.57, when returned to 224 Sqn, crashing on the runway at North Front, Gibraltar, during an air display 14.9.57. Initially Cat.4, but re-categorized Cat.5(Components) 11.11.57.

WL793 MR 2/AEW.2/

• First flown 15.7.53 and A/Cn 27.8.53. To 23MU 4.9.53 and allotted to MEAF 15.12.53. On arrival at Luqa WL793 was issued to 38 Sqn 18.12.53 and was coded Y. Transferred to 137MU/Avro Langar 21.5.54 for mods, returning to 38 Sqn 8.6.54. The rear propeller spinner of No.3 engine came off, causing substantial damage to the fuselage 10.5.55. Repairs 18.5.55 - 10.6.55 were followed by major servicing at Safi/Avro Langar 2.12.55 - 16.2.56. Further modified 14.11.57 - 23.12.57, remaining on 38 Sqn strength until allocated to Avro 10.4.58 for Phase I update, completed 20.7.59. To 204 Sqn 21.7.59 and coded O. To Avro Langar 28.4.61 for Phase II modernization, completed 21.2.62. To 210 Sqn 28.2.62 and coded Z. Cat.3 damage repaired on site by 23MU 10-19.6.64, WL793 returning to 210 Sqn until allotted to HSA Langar 25.11.64 for Phase III conversion, completed 31.12.66. Re-issued to 210 Sqn 1.67 and coded S. To Ballykelly Wing 2.67 still as S. Cat.3 damage 25.8.67 repaired on site by CWP 5-22.9.67. Allocated to HSA Bitteswell 7.2.68 for mods, returning to Ballykelly 3.4.68. Further modified by HSA 10.12.69 - 6.2.70 and transferred to 210 Sqn 10.70. To 5MU 2.4.71 for a major overhaul prior to delivery to HSA Bitteswell 5.6.72 for AEW.2 conversion. First flew in revised configuration 12.72 and delivered to 5MU 12.1.73 for repainting. To Lossiemouth 12.2.73 for radar installation and ToC by 8 Sqn 23.2.73 at Kinloss. Soon named 'Ermintrude'. To Lossiemouth 1.3.73. but returned to Kinloss 9.3.73. Loaned to the MoA Air Fleet and delivered to the A&AEE Boscombe Down 16.8.73 for trials on the forward escape hatch by 'B' Squadron. Returned to 8 Sqn 29.8.73, but again in use for trials work mid-1975. Remained with 8 Sqn until despatched to HSA Bitteswell for re-sparring and major servicing 28.4.77. On air-test 16.3.78 and returned to Lossiemouth 23.3.78 and 8 Sqn 29.3.78. Withdrawn from use 1981 and transferred to the Lossiemouth Battle Damage Repair Flight with maintenance serial 8657M. Intended for use in training tradesmen in the art of patching up damaged airframes, but towed to the dump 7.81 and was completely destroyed within a year, the remains being cut up for scrap 7.82.

WL794 MR 2

• First flown 7.8.53 and A/Cn 31.8.53. To 23MU 8.9.53 and allotted to MEAF 31.12.53. Issued to 38 Sqn 4.1.54 and coded T. Crashed into the sea off Gozo while exercising with a submarine 12.2.54. Declared Cat.5(Missing) the same day.

WL795 MR 2/AEW.2

• First flown 17.8.53 and A/Cn 31.8.53. Delivered to 23MU 8.9.53 for storage. Sent to the CAPMF St Mawgan 30.10.53 for mods before issue to 204 Sqn 6.1.54. Uncoded. Received Cat.3 damage in ground accident 13.3.54. Repair not completed until 13.9.54, when returned to 204 Sqn. Autolycus 'special fitment' at 49MU Colerne 28.2.55, completed by CCMC St Mawgan 22.3.55, when WL795 was ferried back to Ballykelly. Transferred to 269 Sqn11.11.58 and to 210 Sqn on formation 1.12.58. Remained uncoded, and back with 204 Sqn 23.11.59 until allocated to Avro 15.12.59 for Phase I/II update, completed 6.12.60. To 38 Sqn 20.12.60 and coded T. Allotted to HSA Langar for Phase II1 modernization 21.6.66, completed 13.7.67. Issued to 205 Sqn 1.8.67 and coded G. To 5MU Kemble 2.2.71 for storage and overhaul, prior to despatch to HSA Bitteswell 4.2.72 for AEW.2 conversion, first flying as such 8.72. To 5MU 5.9.72 for painting and allotted to 8 Sqn 12.10.72. Delivered to Lossiemouth 18.10.72 for radar installation and acceptance before joining 8 Sqn at Kinloss. Named 'Rosalie'. Transferred with unit from Kinloss to Lossiemouth 14.8.73. Withdrawn 1981 and allocated for crash rescue/fire practice at St Mawgan. Flown from Lossiemouth to St Mawgan 24.11.81 and allocated maintenance serial 8753M. Not used for fire fighting, remaining in open storage until 1988, when prepared for display on the station. Reassembled during 3.89 - 4.89 and coded T for display purposes. Current.

WL796 MR 2

• First flown 23.8.53 and loaned to A.V. Roe & Co for demonstration at the SBAC show, Farnborough, 9.53 with Mk 3 lifeboat mounted under the bomb bay. Delivered Woodford - Aldergrove 5.10.53 and ToC by 23MU the following day. Allotted to MEAF 8.1.54 and issued to 38 Sqn 13.1.54. Coded U. Underwent mods and major servicing at Avro Langar l2.7.55 - 17.10.55, returning to 38 Sqn 24.10.55. Transferred to 37 Sqn 8.7.57 and coded J. Badly damaged in Cat.4 flying accident 2.11.57 when tailwheel assembly broke away on take-off, but repair at Khormaksar by Avro CWP was completed 10.6.58 and WL796 returned to 37 Sqn 22.8.58 still as 1. To Avro Langar 31.7.59 for Phase I mods and retained for completion of Phase II update, completed 22.5.61. Issued to 204 Sqn 25.5.61 and coded M. Cat.3 damage incurred 24.6.63 was repaired on site by 23MU, completed 6.8.63. Returned to 204 Sqn 8.8.63. Cat.3 damage 8.7.64 repaired by 71 MU 15.7.64 5.8.64. More Cat.3 repairs by HSA CWP 18-25.1.65 and 19.10.65 - 17.11.65. Transferred from 204 to 205 Sqn 13.10.66, arriving Changi 21.10.66 and coded C. Ferried to 27MU Shawbury 11.10.67 and declared NEA 1.11.67. Sold as scrap to H.H. Bushell of London 7.10.68.

WL797 MR 2

• First flown 15.9.53 and A/Cn 30.9.53, To Aldergrove with WL796 5.10.53 and ToC by 23MU the following day. Allotted to MEAF 25.11.53 and on arrival at Luqa issued to 38 Sqn 1.12.53 coded W. To 137MU/Avro Langar 15.2.55 for major servicing and mods completed 19.4.55, when transferred to 37 Sqn. Sent to 49MU Colerne 27.4.55 for Autolycus 'special fitment' installation, the mod being completed by CCMC St Mawgan. WL797 was returned to 37 Sqn 10.5.55, and possibly coded J, but was transferred back to 38 Sqn 26.7.55, probably again as W. Cat.3 damage sustained in a heavy landing at Luqa and subsequent emergency landing at Takali 21.11.55. Repaired by the Maintenance Base at Safi. and transferred to 27MU 7.8.57 for storage. To 12MU Kirkbride, but returned to 23MU 16.5.58 for STS prior to allocation to RAF North Front, Gibraltar, 19.12.58. Issued to 224 Sqn 31.12.58 and coded R. To 49MU 6.4.59 for Phase I update and on completion issued to 204 Sqn 5.11.59 as P. Cat.3 damage sustained to the scanner installation 13.9.60 was repaired by Avro CWP 29.9.60 - 23.1.61, when transferred to 210 Sqn and coded Y. To Avro Langar 20.5.63 for Phase II modernization, completed 19.2.64. To 42 Sqn two days later and possibly coded E, but reallocated to 37 Sqn 22.4.64 and coded C on arrival at Khormaksar 24.4.64. Cat.3 damage sustained 2.2.67 was repaired by HSA CWP 9.2.67 - 7.3.67. On unit disbandment 9.67 WL797 was despatched to 27MU Shawbury, arriving 12.9.67 and immediately declared NEA. Cat.5(Scrap) and sold to H.H. Bushell of London 7.10.68.

WL798 MR 2

• First flown 17.9.53 and A/Cn 30.9.53. To Hawarden 6.10.53 and on to 23MU Aldergrove 9.10.53. Allotted to MEAF 15.12.53 and on arrival in Malta issued to 38 Sqn 18.12.53 and coded X. Cat.3 damage 29.7.54 was repaired by 137MU Safi 1-22.11.54, when the aircraft returned to 38 Sqn. Sent to 49MU 8.6.55 for Autolycus fitment, the installation being completed by CCMC St Mawgan before WL798 returned to Malta 24.6.55. Transferred to 137MU Safi for storage 19.12.55 prior to mods by Avro Langar 4.1.56 - 28.3.56. On completion allotted to AHQ Malta, but returned to 38 Sqn 4.4.56 still as X. Another 'special fitment' made 19.12.57 - 17.2.58 was followed by Cat.3 damage 11.3.58, which was repaired by the Maintenance Base, Safi. Returned to 38 Sqn 10.4.58, but allotted to Avro 24.10.58 for Phase I modernization. Reissued to 38 Sqn 4.59 retaining X code until returned to Avro Langar 18.5.60 for Phase II update, completed 28.4.61. Reissued yet again to 38 Sqn 20.5.61, but recoded Y. To HSA Langar 6.3.67 for Phase III conversion, completed 5.68, when despatched to 205 Sqn 16.9.68 and coded J on arrival at Changi. Returned to UK 7.70 and transferred to the Ballykelly Wing 7.7.70. Coded Z 8.70, but allotted to No. 2 SoTT Cosford 4.12.70 for use as an instructional airframe with maintenance serial 8114M. Transferred to Lossiemouth for spares recovery for 8 Sqn.

WL799 MR 2

• Firstflown 18.9.53 and A/Cn 5.10.53, To Hawarden 15.10.53 and on to 23MU Aldergrove 19.10.53 for storage. Issued to 38 Sqn 8.1.54 and coded V. To 49MU Colerne for Autolycus 'special fitment' 15.4.55, returning via CCMC St Mawgan, where installation completed 5.5.55. To Safi 28.9.55 and reallotted to Avro Langar 17.10.55 for special modifications, which were completed 12.55. The aircraft was destroyed in a hangar fire at Langar 22.12.55 while being prepared for return to Malta.

WL800 MR 2

• First flown 1.10.53 and A/Cn 30.10.53. To 23MU 3.11.53 and allotted to MEAF 2.2.54. Arrived 137MU Safi 9.2.54 and issued to 38 Sqn 4.3.54 coded Z. To 49MU Colerne 12.2.55 for 'special fitment (Autolycus)', returning 26.2.55 via CCMC St Mawgan. Allocated to Avro Langar 10.7.56 for major servicing and mods, completed 31.10.56. Returned to 38 Sqn 7.11.56 and transferred to 37 Sqn 1.8.57, retaining Z code. Allocated to Avro 23.7.58, arriving Langar 28.7.58 for Phase I modernization, completed 8.9.59. To 42 Sqn 9.9.59 and coded A. before transfer to 224 Sqn 24.10.60 and coded B. To DH Chester (Hawarden) 11.7.61 for Phase II update, completed 13.2.62. Three days later issued to ASWDU for trials, before allocation to 203 Sqn 15.5.62 and coded E. Cat.3 damage 14.8.63 was repaired by 23MU 23.8.63, as was more Cat.3 damage sustained 3.6.64, the aircraft returning to 203 Sqn 12.6.64. To HSA Langar 12.1.66 for Phase III modernization, on completion of which WL800 was issued to 204 Sqn as J, transferring to the Ballykelly Wing 3.67 and retaining code. To HSA Bitteswell for mods 17.9.69, rejoining the Ballykelly Wing 7.11.69. Transferred to 5MU 1.10.70 for a major servicing, after which WL800 was delivered to 204 Sqn 3.2.71. To the Majunga Detachment Support Unit 29.3.71, returning to the parent unit, 204 Sqn, at Honington, still as J prior to allocation to the RAF Fire School at Catterick 19.5.72. SoC the same day and subsequently destroyed by fire.

WL801 MR 2

• First flown 10.10.53 and A/Cn 30.10.53. To Hawarden 9.11.53, going on to 23MU Aldergrove for storage the following day. Allotted to MEAF 27.1.54, arriving 137MU Safi 4.2.54. To 38 Sqn 15.2.54 and coded T. To 49MU Colerne for Autolycus fitment 24.1.55, the work being completed at CCMC St Mawgan 8.3.55, when returned to 38 Sqn. To Safi/ Avro Langar 2.3.56 - 14.5.56 for mods and major servicing and recoded W on return to 38 Sqn. Transferred to 37 Sqn 8.7.57 and coded B. Cat.3 damage in flying accident 26.11.57 repaired on site, WL801 returning to 37 Sqn 28.2.58 still as B. Allocated to Avro 19.3.58 for Phase I modification, completed 27.5.59. Issued to 38 Sqn 17.6.59 and coded Z. To DH Chester 25.6.61 for Phase II update, arriving Hawarden the following day. On completion delivered to St Mawgan 21.2.62 and ToC by 42 Sqn 26.2.62 as B. To HSA Langar 28.4.64 for Phase III modernization, completed 28.7.66. To Ballykelly and ToC by ASWDU 1.8.66 and coded A. On disbandment of unit WL801 was flown to 5MU Kemble 5.5.70 and stored. Issued to 8 Sqn 15.8.74 and used for crew training coded OI until the aircraft's fatigue life was expended. Ferried to Cosford 11.6.79 for use as an instructional airframe by No.2 SoTT with maintenance serial 8629M. Transferred to the Cosford Aerospace Museum. Scrapped at an unknown date.

Contract 6/Acft/6408/CB6(a) dated 8 February, 1 951, for 40 Shackleton MR 2s to Specification R.5/ 46 (Issue 2) and serialled WR951 - WR990 (allotted 28.2.51). Completed as 19 MR 2 and 21 MR 3

WR951 MR 2

• First flown 20.10.53 and A/Cn 12.11.53. To Hawarden 19.11.53 and on to 38MU the following day for storage. Issued to 204 Sqn 4.1.54, remaining uncoded, To CAPMF 7.54 for mods prior to issue to 228 Sqn later in the month. Coded L-K. Cat.3 damage repaired by Avro CWP 18.9.54 - 12.10.54, returning to 228 Sqn two days later. Transferred to 42 Sqn 2.1.55 and recoded A-F. To 49MU Goleme for Autolycus 'special fitment' 22.8.55 - 6.9.55, the aircraft was recoded E 7.56. To Avro Langar 26.9.58 for Phase I modernization, completed 15.12.59. To 204 Sqn the following day and recoded Q. To DH Chester 10.3.61 for Phase II update, completed 10.10.61. To 224 Sqn three days later and coded W. Transferred to 204 Sqn 7.10.66 and coded N. To Ballykelly Wing 2.67. Reallocated to HSA Langar 5.4.67 for Phase III/T.2 modification, but not completed and aircraft was SoC Cat.5 (Components) 28.2.68.

WR952 MR 2

• First flown 27.10.53 and A/Cn 20.11.53. To Hawarden 25.11.53 and on to 38MU Llandow two days later for storage. Issued to 206 Sqn 10.2.54 and coded B-Z. Transferred to 42 Sqn 1.7.54 and coded A-B. To 49MU for Autolycus 'special fitment' 30.6.55 - 14.7.55 and more mods 26.4.56 - 4.6.56. Cat.3 damage sustained when tailwheel collapsed 29.9.56 repaired by Avro CWP 9.10.56 - 2.11.56. Allocated to Avro 31.3.58 for Phase I modernization, completed 5.5.59, when returned to 42 Sqn and coded E. To DH Chester (Hawarden) 19.1.61 for Phase II update, completed 31.8.61. Reissued to 42 Sqn 6.9.61 still as E. Cat.3 damage repaired by 71MU 23.10.63 - 10.4.64 and after another 18 months with 42 Sqn WR952 was transferred to 204 Sqn 10.12.65 and coded L. Allocated to HSA Langar 17.11.66 for Phase III modernization and issued to 205 Sqn on completion 31,1.68. Coded B on arrival at Changi. Transferred to 204 Sqn (Far East) Detachment 1.11.71 (retaining 205 Sqn markings) and moved to Seletar until withdrawn from Singapore 1.72. Ferried to UK, arriving St Athan 10.1.72, and declared NEA the same day. Cat.5(Scrap) 26.9.73 and broken up.

WR953 MR 2

• First flown 6.11.53 and A/Cn 27.11.53. To Hawarden 15.12.53, continuing to 38MU Llandow 31.12.53 for storage. Issued to 228 Sqn 16.2.55 and coded L-K, changed to 4 for tour of South America 11.55. 'Special fitment' installed 4.57 - 5.57 and sustained Cat.3 damage 13.7.57, which was repaired on site by Avro CWP 16.7.57 - 26.9.57. Transferred to 224 Sqn 2.10.57 and coded P. To 49MU for another 'special fitment' 11.11.57, returning to 224 Sqn on completion 17.12.57. Mods carried out 1.5.58 - 31.12.58, after which remained with 224 Sqn until allocated to HQ British Forces Arabian Peninsula 1.7.59 following the temporary grounding of most of the Aden-based aircraft because of fatigue-life problems. Returned to 224 Sqn 6.8.59 and was despatched to 49MU 11.4.60 for Phase I modernization, completed 21.10.60. Issued to 42 Sqn and coded A. To Avro 12.6.61 for Tl work on Mods 953,978,988 and the introduction of a permanent oxygen system under Contract KD/L/061/ CB6(a), flying to Langar 12.7.61. On completion of trials 22.2.62 WR953 was retained for Phase II update, completed 4.63. To 224 Sqn 9.4.63, probably uncoded. Allotted to HSA 11.10.63 for Tl of Mod 1111 (electrical warning indicators) and Mod 1134 (revised torpedo-battery warning system) against Contract KD/2/063/CB6(a), arriving at Langar 21.10.63. MoA loan extended to 5.2.64, WR953 being delivered to 42 Sqn 19.2.64 and coded B. Transferred to 205 Sqn 19.4.66 and coded F. Cat.3 damage sustained when the aircraft caught fire on approach to Gan 12.10.66 was repaired on site. When replaced by Phase III aircraft, WR953 was ferried to UK, arriving 27MU 10.11.67 and immediately declared NEA. Allocated for fire-fighting training 20.11.67 and flown to Kinloss. SoC Cat.5(Scrap).

WR954 MR 2

• First flown 19.11.53 and A/Cn 10.12.53. To 23MU 14.1.54 for storage and issued to 37 Sqn 1.4.54 coded G. To 49MU Colerne for Autolycus 'special fitment' 24.3.55 - 14.4.55, the work completed at CCMC St Mawgan 16-19.4.55, when returned to Luqa via St Eval. Mods at 137MU Safi 20.4.56 - 29.5.56, WR954 remaining with 37 Sqn until allocated to Avro Langar 24.9.56 for major servicing, completed 14.2.57. Returned to 37 Sqn 23.2.57, but transferred to 38 Sqn 8.7.57 and coded Z. 'Special fitment' 24.7.58 - 1.10.58 and allocated to Avro Langar 12.6.59 for Phase I update, completed 22.6.60. To 210 Sqn 24.6.60 and coded T. Transferred to 37 Sqn 3.2.61 and coded C until departing for Avro Langar 24.10.61 for Phase II modernization, completed 26.6.62. Issued to 205 Sqn 25.7.62 and coded F until returned to the UK 11.4.66 for Phase III conversion at HSA Langar. On completion 14.6.67 WR954 was reissued to 205 Sqn and coded M. Recoded C 11.70 until ferried back to UK, arriving St Athan 17.9.71. Declared NEA 21.9.71 and SoC Cat.5(Scrap) 9.5.73.

WR955 MR 2

• First flown 27.11.53 and A/Cn 18.12.53. To 38MU 12.1.54 and stored until issued to 120 Sqn 8.4.54 and coded A-H. Transferred to 224 Sqn 1.9.54 and coded B-P. Underwent mods 7-23.7.55 and 1-20.3.56. When reallocated to 120 Sqn 21.11.56 was probably coded O. To 210 Sqn 11.2.59, uncoded until transferred to 204 Sqn 30.10.59 and coded N. To Avro Langar 27.11.59 for Phase I modernization, completed 14.11.60. Issued to 42 Sqn 16.11.60 and coded C. To Avro Langar for Phase II update 1962, the aircraft returning to 42 Sqn still coded C. Cat.3 damage repaired by HSA CWP 7-30.10.63 and WR955 remained with 42 Sqn until allocated to HSA Langar 1.66 for Phase III conversion, completed 24.4.67. Issued to the Ballykelly Wing and coded N, transferring to 204 Sqn 10.70 still as N. To MoA Air Fleet on free loan and ferried to the A&AEE Boscombe Down 30.3.71 for measurement of landing performance, presumably in connection with the proposed AEW version. The trials were completed 4.5.71 and the aircraft was despatched to Brize Norton 7.6.71 for use on fire-fighting training. SoC Cat.5(Scrap).

WR956 MR 2

• First flown 10.12.53 and A/Cn 18.1.54. Delivered to 23MU 17.2.54 for storage, but issued to CAPMF St Mawgan 27.4.54 for mods. Delivered to St Eval 2.7.54 and issued to 228 Sqn 6.7.54 coded L-L. Cat.3 damage sustained when tailwheel assembly collapsed 2.11.54 was repaired on site by 49MU 5.11.54 - 25.3.55, when WR956 returned to 228 Sqn. To 49MU for Autolycus 'special fitment' 26.4.55 - 25.5.55, the aircraft visiting CCMC for completion of installation. Recoded I for South American tour by unit 10.55 - 11.55. To 120 Sqn 9.10.56 and coded A until transferred to 269 Sqn 27.10.58. Uncoded. The unit was renumbered 210 Sqn 1.12.58, WR956 remaining on strength until allocated to Avro Langar 9.5.60 for Phase I/II modernization, completed 31.3.61. To 38 Sqn 13.4.61 and coded W until despatched to HSA Langar 12.11.66 for Phase III update, completed 12.1.68. Issued to the Ballykelly Wing and coded Q. On 1.4.68 WR956 crash landed at Ballykelly and was SoC Cat.5(Scrap) the same day. Dumped at Ballykelly.

WR957 MR 2

• First flown 21.12.53 and A/Cn 21. I .54. Delivered to Hawarden 22.2.54 and on to 38MU 3.3.54 for storage. Issued to CAPMF St Mawgan 17.5.54 for mods prior to delivery to 228 Sqn 6.7.54, Coded L-U. To 49MU for Autolycus 'special fitment' 6.4.55 and returned to 228 Sqn via CCMC St Mawgan 27.4.55. Recoded 3 in preparation for unit tour of South America 10.55 - ll.55, reverting to U early in 1956. Cat.3 damage repaired by Avro CWP 3-16.5.56, the aircraft remaining with 228 Sqn until despatched to Avro Langar 18.2.59 for Phase I modernization, completed 20.1.60, when issued to 204 Sqn and coded R. Cat.4 damage to the bomb doors, scanner cupola and rear fuselage was sustained 19.4.61 when WR957 hit the water during a simulated night attack, but was repaired on site at Ballykelly by an Avro CWP 24.4.61 - 30.6.61, the aircraft returning to 204 Sqn 3.7.61. To 224 Sqn 13.7.61 and coded B. Issued to 203 Sqn and coded J. Returned to 204 Sqn 6.12.66, retaining code J, but despatched to 27MU 23.3.67 and declared NEA 23.5.67. Cat.S(Scrap) and sold to H.H. Bushell of London 26.6.68.

WR958 MR 2

• First flown 8.1.54 and A/Cn 29.1.54. Delivered to 23MU 17.2.54 for storage. To CAPMF St Mawgan 26.5.54 for mods prior to issue to 228 Sqn 8.7.54. Coded L-N. To 49MU 18.4.55 for Autolycus 'special fitment' completed 6.5.55, when returned to 228 Sqn via CCMC St Mawgan. Recoded N during 1956. Transferred to 42 Sqn 21.1.58 and recoded A. To Avro 7.10.59 for Phase I update 24.11.59, completed 28.10.60. Returned to 42 Sqn 4.11.60 and recoded D. Modified to Phase II standard 12.61 - 11.62, again returning to 42 Sqn retaining D coding. Cat.3 damage sustained 6.12.62 was repaired by 71 MU 7.12.62 - 20.2.63. Cat.3 damage 2.4.64 was repaired by CWP, completed 21.5.64. WR958 transferred from 42 Sqn to 210 Sqn 5.1.66 and coded U. Cat.3 damage 9.8.66 repaired on site 17.8.66 - 9.9.66. To Ballykelly Wing 7.2.67, retaining code U, but despatched to 27MU Shawbury 30.3.67 and declared NEA 23.5.67. Cat.5(Scrap) and sold to International Alloys Ltd of Aylesbury 3.9.68.

WR959 MR 2

• First flown 20.1.54 and A/Cn 12.2.54. To 38MU 3.3.54 for storage. To CAPMF St Mawgan 1.6.54 for mods prior to issue to 228 Sqn 8.7.54. Coded L-O. To 49MU Colerne for Autolycus installation 8.3.55, returning to 228 Sqn via CCMC St Mawgan 6.4.55. Recoded 2 for 228 Sqn South American tour 10.55 - 11.55, returning to O code in 1956. Recoded W 1958 and transferred to 42 Sqn 19.2.59. To Avro 8.9.59 for Phase I modernization, completed 28.7.60. To 37 Sqn 7,10,60 and coded D. To ASF Eastleigh, Kenya, for major servicing 26.4.61 - 15.7.61, returning to Aden until allocated to Avro 2.11.62 for Phase II update 8.11.62 - 9.10.63. To 203 Sqn 14.10.63 as temporary replacement for WL742, then ferried to 23MU 12.12.63 for storage. To 42 Sqn 19.1.65 and coded G until returned to 203 Sqn 21.3.66 and coded E. Transferred to 205 Sqn 28.6.66 and coded A. SoC Cat.5(Components) 3.9.68 and broken up at Changi.

WR960 MR 2/AEW.2

• First flown 5.2.54 and A/Cn 25.2.54. To 23MU 8.3.54 and issued to CAPMF St Mawgan 24.6.54 for mods. To 228 Sqn 22.7.54 and coded L-P. Autolycus 'special fitment' at 49 MU 1.6.55 - 17.6.55, the aircraft visiting CCMC St Mawgan for completion of mod before redelivery to 228 Sqn. More mods at 49MU 5.2.57 - 12.3.57 and in 8.58 WR960 was recoded X. Transferred from 228 Sqn to 42 Sqn 9.3.59 and coded B until allocated to Avro 8.9.59 for Phase I modernization, completed 3.7.60. Ferried from Langar to 49MU Colerne 4.8.60 for further mods, completed 9.12.60. To St Mawgan 18.12.60, but reallocated to 210 Sqn the following day and coded U on arrival at Ballykelly. To Avro 28.3.62 for Phase II update and retained at Langar on completion 30.1.63 , when handed over to the MoA Air Fleet for Tl of Phase III modifications against Contracts KD/L/091 and 092/CB6(a). To A&AEE Boscombe Down 15.12.65 for official trials of Phase III armament by 'B' Squadron. On completion allotted to HSA Langar 14.6.67 for a minor servicing and preparation for servicer arriving 16.6.67. Despatched to FEAF via St Mawgan 2.2.68 and issued to 205 Sqn as A. Ferried to the UK, arriving St Mawgan 8.11.70, and on to 5MU Kemble the next day for storage. Delivered to HSA Bitteswell 27.5.71 for conversion to AEW.2, on completion returning to