Buccaneer XV867 of RAF 208 Squadron performing a low-level run. Photographed by Stuart H Bourne, highlighting Cold War strike tactics and jet power.
© Stuart H Bourne / Quality Aviation Photos International.
The Blackburn Buccaneer was a British low-level strike aircraft designed for high-speed penetration of enemy defenses. Originally developed for the Royal Navy, it later served with the Royal Air Force, where it became a Cold War workhorse.
Airframe XV867 began its career with the Royal Navy before transferring to the RAF, where it flew with several units including 208 Squadron at RAF Lossiemouth. It underwent multiple upgrades, including conversion to the S.2B standard and avionics enhancements for Sea Eagle missile capability. XV867 was also fitted with modified wingtips to extend its service life following fatigue testing prompted by earlier Buccaneer losses.
In 1993, while serving with 208 Squadron, XV867 suffered a landing accident at RAF Leeming when its port undercarriage collapsed. Though not severely damaged, the aircraft was withdrawn from service and eventually scrapped. However, the nose section was preserved and is now on display at the Morayvia Aviation Museum in Kinloss, Scotland—a tribute to the Buccaneer’s legacy and the crews who flew it.
