AVRO 694 Lincoln in Service

(Monochrome Photograph showing - An early production Lincoln, RA638, seen during a test flight from Woodford in September 1945.)

Early in the Second World War a long-range replacement for the Lancaster was planned and specifically designed to take part in the Pacific War against the Japanese. The overall dimensions were increased with more powerful engines and extra armament. Initially named the Lancaster IV this was soon changed in favour of the Avro 694 Lincoln.

The prototype Mk.I first flew from the Avro experimental unit at Ringway (now Manchester Airport) on 9 June 1944 and was powered by four of the new Rolls-Royce Merlin 85s. Over 800 aircraft were initially ordered, but this number was reduced as the bomber requirement diminished.

In September 1945 Lincolns were allocated to Nos. 44 and 57 Squadrons for service trials, but as the war had ended these aircraft were already too late to enter the conflict. In 1947 twelve Lincolns received new radar and armament equipment to become Mk.2s. Long-range flights and goodwill tours seemed to be the order of the day from 1947 to 1949.

(Monochrome Photograph - This Lincoln, RF385, of No.57 Squadron in the white and black colour scheme for operations in the Far East.)