FSX RAF Meteor NF11 WD673

This repaint depicts Armstrong Whitworth Meteor NF11 WD673, a historic Royal Air Force night fighter that joined service in January 1952. It served with 87 Squadron under the 2nd Tactical Air Force at RAF Wahn and later ended its operational life in 1958 at Kirkbride. This texture set is designed by Peter Watkins for Rob Richardson’s freeware Armstrong Whitworth Meteor NF11 model. Please note that the base model is not included and should be acquired from the Fly Away Simulation library. This package faithfully recreates WD673’s external markings, ensuring full immersion for enthusiasts seeking an authentic post-war RAF jet experience.

Airframe Background and Design Origins

The Armstrong Whitworth Meteor NF11 evolved as a night fighter variant of the original Gloster Meteor series. While the earlier Meteor models were established as Britain’s first operational jet fighters, the NF11 adaptation offered unique modifications such as an extended nose radome housing the AI Mk 10 radar (in brackets: [AI Mk 10 means Air Intercept radar commonly found in early post-war interceptors]). This expansion shifted the 20 mm cannons outward into the wings, enabling enhanced capabilities for nighttime operations. What sets the NF11 apart is its lineage based on the T.7 two-seat trainer, yet it borrowed key elements—like the fuselage from the F.8 and the longer-span wings of the F.3.

Operational History of WD673

WD673 began its official duty in 1952. It was actively deployed by 87 Squadron, part of the 2nd Tactical Air Force stationed at RAF Wahn, underlining its role in Europe’s post-war defense framework. Over time, operational wear and strategic transitions led to WD673 being scrapped in 1958 at Kirkbride. Nevertheless, its presence in flight simulation offers enthusiasts the chance to pilot this significant aircraft in a fully realized virtual sky.

Key Features of This Repaint

• Authentic Markings: Captures WD673’s unique RAF insignia and squadron identifiers from the early 1950s.
• Period-Correct Color Scheme: Reflects the standard post-war color layout, especially tailored to the NF series.
• High-Fidelity Textures: Provides sharp details, seamlessly matching the geometry of Rob Richardson’s freeware Meteor NF11 model.
• Night Fighter Emphasis: Integrates subtle weathering to illustrate the airframe’s role in nocturnal sorties.

Implementation Steps

Before proceeding, ensure that you have correctly installed Rob Richardson’s freeware Armstrong Whitworth Meteor NF11 base package, as this repaint will not function independently. Once the base model is ready, follow these steps in FSX:

• Extract and place the provided texture folder into the "Armstrong Whitworth Meteor NF11" directory located within your FSX "SimObjects / Airplanes" folder.
• Open the aircraft.cfg file (found in the same aircraft folder) and append the below snippet. Replace “xx” with the subsequent number in your aircraft listing to keep entries in sequence.

[fltsim.xx]
title=Armstrong Whitworth Meteor NF11 WD673
sim=Armstrong Whitworth Meteor NF11
model=
panel=
sound=
texture=WD673
kb_checklists=AW_Meteor_NF11_check
kb_reference=AW_Meteor_NF11_ref
ui_manufacturer=Armstrong Whitworth
ui_type=Meteor NF11
ui_variation=WD673
ui_typerole="Twin engine jet night fighter"
ui_createdby="RJR"
atc_id=WD673
atc_airline=Air Force
atc_flight_number=866
description=As a night fighter, the Meteor again replaced the Mosquito however it was never more than an interim measure. The Mosquito night fighter had remained in use even though it was largely obsolete. Gloster proposed a night fighter design to meet the Air Ministry specification for the Mosquito replacement, based on the two seater trainer, with the pilot in the front seat and the navigator in the rear. Once accepted however, the work passed to Armstrong Whitworth for both the detail design and production; the first prototype flew on 31 May 1950. Although based on the T.7 twin seater, it used the fuselage and tail of the F.8, and the longer wings of the F.3. An extended nose contained the AI Mk 10 (the 1940s Westinghouse SCR-720) Air Intercept radar. As a consequence the 20 mm cannons were moved into the wings, outboard of the engines. A ventral fuel tank and wing mounted drop tanks completed the Armstrong Whitworth Meteor NF.11.

Additional Notes

Compatibility

Designed for FSX, though it may function in some Prepar3D setups with minor adjustments. Users should confirm compatibility prior to installation.

Customization

Users familiar with texture editing may further refine markings or weathering effects. Always back up your original files before making changes.

This repaint by Peter Watkins creates an immersive historical stance for Rob Richardson’s Meteor NF11, allowing flight sim pilots to experience a milestone in post-war British jet development. Enjoy the journey into vintage night fighter operations and appreciate a rare piece of RAF heritage during your next FSX sortie.

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