HS801 MR1 Development 1968-1972

The two Prototypes where quickly followed by four Development Aircraft (XV226-XV229.)

The four Development aircraft were used for Various Tasks between 1968 - 1971.

XV226 First Flew 28th June1968 and was used for Navigation & Systems Development, Tropical Trials, Cold Weather Trials & Automatic Flight Systems Development.

XV227 First Flew 28th Jan1969 and was used for Armament Clearance, Bomb Bay Tanks and High Weight Trials.

XV228 First Flew on the13th Mar 1969 and was used for Nav/Tac & Radio Trials.

XV229 First Flew 9th May1969 and was used for Avionics Trials.

(4Nr Monochrome Photographs) - Here XV227, as part of the Nimrod's program to release to service, is showing the MOD how all the equipment is fitted.
Above Left: The ASV Scanner & Transmitter.
Above Right: One of four Spey Engines.
Below Left & Right: Different configurations of Munitions and the Sonobuoy Launchers.