The shape of the ’seventies, for RAF fighter pilots, is well represented in this picture of a Hawker Siddeley Harrier GR Mk 1 accompanied by a McDonnell Phantom FGR Mk 2.

Three RAF fighter types of the ’fifties are shown together in this photograph, all in the markings of No 66 Squadron. From left to right they are the Hawker Hunter F Mk 4, Canadair Sabre F Mk 4 and Gloster Meteor F Mk 8.

The RAF's first jet fighters were the Gloster Meteor and the de Havilland Vampire. Illustrated are Meteor F Mk IIIs of No 124 Squadron in 1946.

Last de Havilland fighter to serve with the RAF was the Venom, shown in the NF Mk 3 night fighter version, in the markings of No 141 Squadron.

A Gloster Javelin FAW Mk 5 of No 151 Squadron.

Ultimate version of the Meteor in RAF service was the NF Mk 14 developed by Armstrong Whitworth, illustrated here in the markings of No 85 Squadron.

Throughout the ’sixties, the English Electric Lightning has provided the backbone of Britain's fighter defences and the latest versions remain in front-line service at home and abroad. Illustrated are Lightning F Mk IAs of No 111 Squadron.