Hawker's Secret Cold War Airfield: Dunsfold: Home of the Hunter and Harrier

Hawker Aircraft looked for alternative accommodation for their flight-testing requirements in 1948 and found Dunsfold Aerodrome. They launched the Sea Hawk and Hunter jet aircraft designs and produced nearly 2,000 Hunters before other projects took precedence. The company lost its premier project, the P.1121, but came upon a radical new engine proposal and schemed an aircraft around it capable of vertical take-off and landing. The Harrier proved to be a successful aircraft during the Falklands War, and Hawker Siddeley stepped into the competitive trainer aircraft market with the Hawk. British Aerospace then brought forth the Harrier GR.5, the UK version of the US AV-8B, an upgraded and improved Harrier. Dunsfold Aerodrome has largely escaped the notice of the general public due to its secrecy and the nature of its work.

Format: Hardback
Length: 288 pages
Publication date: 28 September 2020
Publisher: Pen & Sword Books Ltd

In 1948, Hawker Aircraft faced the challenge of accommodating new jet projects that required an alternative airfield to their existing facility at Langley. After three arduous years, Dunsfold Aerodrome became available, thanks to the reluctant approval of the Air Ministry. This pivotal moment allowed Hawker to launch its first jet aircraft design, the Sea Hawk, into series production for the Royal Navy. Shortly after, the Hunter, a remarkable aircraft, followed suit, showcasing Hawker's expertise in jet aircraft development.

Over the years, Hawker Aircraft produced nearly 2,000 Hunters, solidifying their position as a major player in the aviation industry. However, as the late 1950s approached, the company shifted its focus to its successor, the Mach 2 capable air superiority fighter designated as P.1121. Unfortunately, this project faced setbacks due to severe national financial shortfalls.

In the face of adversity, Hawker Aircraft sought a radical solution to its challenges. They proposed an aircraft concept centered around a new engine design, capable of vertical take-off and landing. While many skeptics dismissed this proposal, Hawker's vision for the Harrier proved to be visionary. The Harrier emerged as a formidable weapon during the Falklands War, showcasing its capabilities and resilience.

Following the success of the Harrier, Hawker Siddeley entered the competitive trainer aircraft market with the Hawk. The Hawk was designed to meet the requirements of the Royal Air Force (RAF) and was subsequently sold to air arms worldwide, including the United States Navy. This remarkable achievement showcased the international recognition and acclaim that Hawker's designs had garnered.

British Aerospace then took the aviation world by surprise with the introduction of the Harrier GR.5, the UK version of the US AV-8B Harrier. This upgraded and improved version of the Harrier further solidified Hawker's reputation as a leading aircraft manufacturer.

It is worth noting that Hawker Aircraft's remarkable output did not stem from a massive industrial plant in the Midlands but rather from an isolated aerodrome nestled in the rural hinterland of south Surrey. Despite its remote location, Hawker's dedication to innovation and excellence resulted in the production of some of the most iconic and influential aircraft in aviation history.

In conclusion, Hawker Aircraft's journey from its early challenges to its eventual success is a testament to the resilience and creativity of the British aviation industry. The company's commitment to innovation, coupled with its ability to adapt to changing circumstances, has enabled it to produce a series of remarkable aircraft that have played pivotal roles in military and civilian aviation. The legacy of Hawker Aircraft continues to inspire and influence the aviation industry to this day.

Weight: 848g
Dimension: 165 x 241 x 29 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781526771759