Another rare colour photograph of 33008 in the UK before delivery. Note the original taller fins, later replaced with shorter kidney-shaped fins and rudders to prevent excessive yaw and possible rudder-locking at low speed.

Самолёты на фотографии: Aircrafts on the photo: De Havilland Venom / D.H.112 - ВеликобританияUnited Kingdom - 1949

Contained within the bulbous radome of the J 33 was the scanner for the same PS-20/A (SCR-720B) radar suite, known as AI Mk X in RAF service, fitted to its predecessor, the J 30 Mosquito. Note also the apertures on the underside of the fuselage for the nightfighter’s four 20mm Hispano cannon and the original framed canopy roof.

Самолёты на фотографии: Aircrafts on the photo: De Havilland Venom / D.H.112 - ВеликобританияUnited Kingdom - 1949

With its short undercarriage enabling easy access to all parts of the airframe and powerplant, the J 33 proved to be a rugged and adaptable nightfighter, capable of operating in the harshest Arctic winters. The revised clamshell canopy, seen here, was a great improvement over the original.

Самолёты на фотографии: Aircrafts on the photo: De Havilland Venom / D.H.112 - ВеликобританияUnited Kingdom - 1949

Although Flygvapnet regarded the J 33 as an interim aircraft, the type remained in front-line service for seven years, before being replaced by the Swedish-designed and -built Saab J 32B Lansen. The last of the RAF’s Venom NF.2s and NF.3s were retired from squadron service in late 1957, and the Royal Navy’s Sea Venoms in 1960.

Самолёты на фотографии: Aircrafts on the photo: De Havilland Venom / D.H.112 - ВеликобританияUnited Kingdom - 1949