AVRO 696 Shackleton 3

The introduction of the MR.2 into service released some MR.1s which were converted into trainers, thus releasing MR.2s for operational use. 17 airframes were selected by Avro for this conversion. Additional radar and navigation stations, ASV Mk.21 and Blue Silk Doppler radar were fitted to bring them up to current standards. The modified airframes were given the designation T.4, and they entered service in August 1957. The T.4 was replaced by 10 Mk.2sin 1968.

(Colour Photograph showing -Shackleton T.4 of MOTU at St.Mawgan.)

By 1955 a further development resulted in the Mark 3. Although based on the Mark 2, improvements were made to crew comfort and increased fuel capacity by fitting wingtip tanks (making 24 hour flights possible) as well as incorporation of new detection equipment. In addition, a more modern nosewheel undercarriage was fitted. First flown on September 2nd, it followed the Mark 2 into production. Some 170 production Shackleton aircraft were built at the Chadderton Factory, near Manchester. The total built, including prototypes, was 185.

(Monochrome Photograph showing - Shackleton 3 production line at Woodford.)