Phantom FG.1 XV579 in 767 Naval Air Squadron 157/VL markings, photographed by Stuart H. Bourne. A rare Fleet Air Arm training airframe captured in full Royal Navy livery.
© Stuart H Bourne / Quality Aviation Photos International.
This high-quality aviation print features McDonnell Douglas Phantom FG.1 XV579, photographed in service with 767 Naval Air Squadron at RNAS Yeovilton. Wearing the distinctive 157/VL tail code, XV579 represents the Royal Navy’s carrier-capable Phantom variant, used to train Fleet Air Arm pilots for operations aboard HMS Ark Royal.
Built in 1968, XV579 served as a key training asset before transitioning to RAF service. The FG.1 variant was specially modified for naval use, including reinforced landing gear and extended nose struts for catapult launches. This image captures the aircraft in its prime, bearing full squadron insignia and Royal Navy roundels.
Printed on gloss archival photographic paper, this image is ideal for collectors, historians, and enthusiasts of British fast jet aviation. No preserved airframe of XV579 exists today, making this print a rare visual record of its operational life.
