FSX Syrian Meteor NF11

This repaint pays tribute to a rare Armstrong-Whitworth Meteor NF11 once transferred to the Syrian Air Force (registration 472), originally designated ex-RAF WM336. It features detailed markings recreated by Peter Watkins and uses Rob Richardson’s freeware NF11 model as a base. The enhanced scheme highlights the post-war night fighter design while reflecting the aircraft’s unconventional journey to Syrian service in May of 1954.

Historic Background of the NF11 Airframe

The Armstrong-Whitworth Meteor NF11 emerged from efforts to replace the de Havilland Mosquito in night operations. Gloster initially conceptualized the design, but Armstrong-Whitworth oversaw the advanced production and fine-tuning. The rear fuselage, along with the tailplane, was adapted from the F.8 version, while the wing structure took cues from the longer-span F.3. A lengthened nose section accommodated the AI Mk 10 (also known as the Westinghouse SCR-720) Air Intercept radar, shifting the 20 mm cannons to outboard wing positions. This shift allowed greater functionality in radar housing without compromising the Meteor’s speed or range. Serving as an interim solution, the NF11 became a stopgap to modernize night-fighter capabilities as the Mosquito aged out of frontline duties.

Syrian Air Force Connection

A small batch of NF13 variants, closely resembling the NF11, was delivered to the Syrian Air Force, with 472 (ex-RAF WM336) being part of that consignment. These transfers highlight the global export footprint of the Meteor platform during the 1950s, especially in regions seeking to bolster night interception abilities. This repaint faithfully illustrates the aircraft’s desert camouflage and national insignia, reflecting authentic details from archival references.

Applying the Livery to Your Simulator

This repaint requires the freeware Armstrong Whitworth Meteor NF11 base model by Rob Richardson. Once installed, you must integrate the new textures and relevant configuration lines into your FSX. Instructions follow below.

• Copy the “texture.Syrian” folder into the “Armstrong Whitworth Meteor NF11” directory within the SimObjects › Airplanes folder in FSX.
• Open the aircraft.cfg file in a text editor and add the following entry, ensuring you replace “xx” with the next numerical position in your existing sequence.

[fltsim.xx]
title=Armstrong Whitworth Meteor NF11 Syrian
sim=Armstrong Whitworth Meteor NF11
model=
panel=
sound=
texture=Syrian
kb_checklists=AW_Meteor_NF11_check
kb_reference=AW_Meteor_NF11_ref
ui_manufacturer=Armstrong Whitworth
ui_type=Meteor NF11
ui_variation=Syrian
ui_typerole="Twin engine jet night fighter"
ui_createdby="RJR"
atc_id=472
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 for Flight Enthusiasts

After you incorporate this repaint, you will find that the distinctive camouflaged surfaces and regional markings capture the essence of an era when various air arms were rapidly modernizing their fleets. This unique NF11 showcase by Peter Watkins stands apart thanks to its historical markings and the structural characteristics carried over from earlier Meteor variants. The combination of night-fighting equipment, streamlined aerodynamics, and robust twin-engine propulsion offers a fascinating glimpse into mid-century military aviation.

Credit goes to Rob Richardson for creating the faithful Armstrong Whitworth Meteor NF11 freeware model, and to Peter Watkins for applying meticulous effort in crafting this Syrian Air Force scheme. The base package is available in the Fly Away Simulation library, and this livery add-on serves as a rewarding enhancement for enthusiasts seeking an authentic post-war jet fighter experience.

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