Aviation News – Centenary tail art for XI Squadron at RAF Coningsby

Today, XI Squadron based at Royal Air Force Coningsby, proudly unveiled a new paint scheme to commemorate their 100th anniversary.

The Typhoon aircraft, emblazoned with the black and gold markings of XI, reflects the squadron’s formation at Netheravon, Wiltshire in February 1915, and its current location at RAF Coningsby.

Officer Commanding XI Squadron, Wing Commander Chris Layden said, “This scheme is one of the many ways in which we are celebrating our centenary this year. I am indebted to the personnel on the squadron who designed the scheme, as well as our civilian colleagues who have completed such a dramatic work of art.”

100 years ago the squadron served on the Western Front, where one of its pilots, 2nd Lt Insall received a Victoria Cross for gallantry.

Following the First World War the squadron was sent overseas, being based outside of the UK for the entire second war, and not returning to the UK as a squadron until 1967.

After 17 years of being equipped with the Lightning aircraft, an example of which is still with XI squadron, the squadron flew Tornado F3s before becoming a Typhoon squadron in March 2007.

Wg Cdr Layden said, “Our squadron is now just over 100 years old, our personnel have been defending the UK’s interests, whether at home or abroad, for all of that time, a role we continue to carry out today. I am hugely proud to be part of this squadron, and to work with its men and women.”

GAR would to thank RAF Coningsby