Vickers Wellington X

Serial Number: MF628
Period: WWII
Collection Ref: 69/A/171
Location: RAF Museum London, Bomber Hall

Built in greater numbers than any other British bomber, the Wellington formed the backbone of Bomber Command operations until the widespread introduction of four-engined bombers into service in 1941.

Introduced into service in 1938 Wellingtons and Blenheims shared the honour of being the first Royal Air Force aircraft to attack Germany when they bombed ships at Brunsbüttel on 4 September 1939. Even with its power-operated turrets the Wellington was unable to defend itself adequately in daylight and had to switch to night operations to survive the German defences.

Using the geodetic type of construction developed by Barnes Wallis, the Wellington was immensely strong and could take large amounts of damage and still return safely to base. The Wellington served in many roles during its long service life. Designed as a bomber, it became an effective torpedo carrier and submarine killer in Coastal Command before going on to Transport and Training Commands.

The adaptability of the basic design resulted in the aircraft being used for a number of early experiments in duties we take for granted today; airborne minesweeping, electronic counter-measures, and high altitude flying with pressurised cabins.

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