British Bristol 188 Supersonic Spyplane Aircraft

The Bristol Type 188 was a British experimental aircraft built to investigate sustained high-speed flight and aerodynamic heating. Its stainless-steel construction and twin-engine layout were distinctive. It was not an operational reconnaissance or “spyplane” type, and the program did not achieve all its intended test objectives before it ended.

The program addressed the structural and thermal problems anticipated for future high-speed aircraft. Extensive stainless-steel construction earned it the nickname Flaming Pencil. Two flying examples used de Havilland Gyron Junior turbojets and began flight testing in 1962. Fuel consumption and engine limitations restricted the duration and speed of useful tests. The project nevertheless provided experience with specialized materials, fabrication, and instrumentation. Its short test career documented the gap between the program’s ambitious objectives and the practical limitations of available propulsion.

Finish and color

Supplied unpainted and printed in the selected color. Choose from the available product color options.

Tabletop use

Suitable for period-appropriate custom scenarios in Global War 1946, Global War 1985, and compatible Axis & Allies games. Use suitable scenario or house rules for unit statistics and any technology upgrades. This piece does not supply additional game rules.

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