The RAF BBMF exists to commemorate the personnel of the RAF who have served their country in conflict, especially during WW2 and those who gave their lives for the freedom of others. The flight’s fleet of WW2 aircraft is preserved in flying condition as a living tribute to them all. The fleet comprises an Avro Lancaster; a C-47 Dakota, six Spitfires, two Hurricanes and two de Havilland Chipmunk training aircraft.

Maintaining these priceless aircraft is planned through a 20 year rolling programme. Work is typically carried out during the winter season between October- March.

NAR’s renowned expertise in designing and manufacturing cooling parts and radiators for classic and historic cars was instrumental in helping to secure its first contract with the RAF BBMF.

The fundamental requirement is to re-create the original parts, exactly as they were made when the aircraft were first built. 250 drawings were taken out of the archives and meticulously studied to ensure that water radiators and engine coolers are re-produced exactly as the originals.

The initial order is to install these water radiators and engine coolers into the Spitfire Mk IIa – the oldest, original airworthy Spitfire in the world and the only Spitfire still flying that fought in the Battle of Britain. The exact same requirement is also needed for the Spitfire Mk XIX – built too late to see service in WW2 and used for subsequent, important, strategic reconnaissance missions across Europe post 1945.

NAR Group is delighted to be associated with the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight at RAF Coningsby and looks forward to supporting and maintaining other aircraft in the fleet over the coming years that all form such a significant part of our national heritage.

For further information visit www.raf.mod.uk/bbmf