14” x 12.5” Photo on Card of RAF V- Force - Vulcan Victor and Valiant Bombers in Flight c1955

Here on offer is a great piece of British “Cold War” memorabilia, being a large black and white photo (on card) of the RAF V-Force bombers in flight, circa 1955.

The V-force was the name given to the Royal Air Force’s strategic nuclear bomber force during the Cold War. As a response to the increasing nuclear threat of the post-WW2, three bomber aircraft were designed: the Vickers Valiant, the Avro Vulcan and the Handley Page Victor.

These three aircraft, collectively known as V-bombers, were intended to provide the United Kingdom with an independent and effective nuclear deterrent, playing a crucial role in maintaining the balance of power during the tension between the Eastern and Western blocs following the creation of NATO and the formation of the Warsaw Pact.
The V-bombers were created due to the British Government’s requirement in 1947 for an advanced strategic bomber capable of delivering nuclear weapons over long distances. Each aircraft was created to bring a unique attribute to the table.

The Valiant was to be the first operational aircraft of the three and demonstrated the feasibility of jet-powered strategic bombing.

The Vulcan combined agility with high-altitude performance.

The Victor offered exceptional range and payload capabilities.

Created for high-altitude bombing missions, the V-bombers were adapted later on for low-level penetration roles due to Soviet air defence improvements. This change in strategy posed certain challenges such as increased airframe stress and fatigue, regardless, the robustness of the V-bombers allowed them to adapt to those needs.

The Polaris submarine-launched ballistic missile system in the late 1960s marked the beginning of the end for the V-force as the United Kingdom’s primary nuclear deterrent. However, they did continue to serve in various capacities, including as aerial refuelling tankers and in conventional bombing roles including the major conflict in the Falklands in 1982.

This photo has been printed onto a card backing and looks to be a real period piece, with some slight scuff marks on the front and light foxing on the back.

It measures 14.2” (36cm) by 12.4” (31.5cm) and weighs 105g.

Please see my pictures for the details of the condition, which complement this description.

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Code: 52209