The Meteor became the RAF's first operational jet when it entered srvice with No. 616 Squadron during July 1944. It made its first flight on 5 March 1943. The Welland-powered Meteor I was followed into service by the Derwent-engined Meteor III and both saw extensive wartime service, notably against V-1s. The F.Mk 4 had uprated engines, and formed the backbone of Fighter Command during the late 1940s. from 1950, the F.Mk 4 was repalced by the much improved F.Mk 8, which had uprated engines and a lengthened fuselage which gave greater fuel capacity and much improved high-speed handling. A new tail unit was fitted and an ejector seat was standard equipment. The last front-line squadron disbanded in April 1957, but Meteors continued in use as hacks and target tugs until 1982.
SPECIFICATION: Gloster Meteor F.Mk 8 single-seat day fighter
SPAN: 11.32m (37ft 2in)
LENGTH: 13.58M (44ft 7in)
POWERPLANT: 2x Rolls-Royce Derwent 8; 3,600lbst each
ARMAMENT: 4x20mm cannon in nose, rockets or fuel tanks underwing
MAXIMUM SPEED: 590mph at sea level
OPERATIONAL RANGE: 980 miles
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