| Passing
between the Shetlands and the Faroe Islands a soviet Tupolev Tu-142
long-range surveillance aircraft is intercepted by two FG1 Phantoms out of
Leuchars, Scotland. Loaded with a full missile fit and long-range tanks,
the Phantoms escort the Bear away from the UK air defence regions, which
cover around 4 million square miles. All incoming aircraft that have not
filed a flight plan must be investigated. QRA (Quick Reaction Alert)
aircrew are ready day or night, in all weather conditions, and always find
their target. This scene would have been a regular sight for QRA Phantom
aircrew investigating Soviet aircraft.
Philip writes; "The
Phantom is one of my all-time favourite aircraft. It's impossible not to
be impressed with the Phantoms 'I mean business' appearance. It's a big
aircraft, with a performance and weaponry to match. The aircraft in my
painting served with distinction throughout 1969 - 1989, helping to keep
our country safe, and it gives me enormous pleasure to record a piece of
history that so many of us at the time took for granted." |
