Nimrod parts wing way to museum

Huge wings were delivered to RAF Cosford as part of an operation to install a full-sized Nimrod aircraft at the museum.

Click on right image to view more pictures

The body of the Hawker Siddeley Nimrod R.1 XV249 fuselage aircraft arrived at the museum under police escort a week ago.

Days later the gigantic wings were seen making their way along the streets, to the amazement of onlookers.

Tight bends and bridges had to be negotiated carefully by the lorry carrying the oversized load. With the wings – which have a span of 35 metres – now safely delivered, the Nimrod will be put together and remain at the museum to be viewed by members of the public.

The Nimrod was one of 46 aircraft used by the RAF for maritime reconnaissance and signals intelligence work.

It was in service for nearly 40 years. Its final flight took place last year when it flew from RAF Waddington in Lincoln to Kemble before its final journey to Shropshire.

RAF Museum curator Al McLean said: "It was amazing to see such a large aircraft transported by road to Cosford and we are pleased to be receiving a Nimrod aircraft into the RAF Museum collection.