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Restoration of Phantom airframe XV406

Many thanks to Steve Cawley and Mark Moore for working on Phantom airframe XV406, which was on the verge of being beyond saving with rampant corrosion throughout. However, the team have transformed XV406 into a great exhibit to be seen at the Solway Aviation Museum located at Carlise airport.

More information can be found on the museums' website - https://www.solway-aviation-museum.co.uk

Below are some photographs detailing the restoration, started june 2018, to the wonderful display standard to be seen today, April 2019. The beautiful camouflaged nod to the 1970's was inspired by the image of this aircraft at the Queens Silver jubilee.

XV406 ended its service career with 228 OCU and was selected for gate guard duties at 14 MU in Carlisle before its closure in 1997. Following a period of about 25 years during which the airframe sat outside in all weathers, it was given to the Solway Aviation Museum. 


The aircraft was in a very bad state of repair when the team started the restoration and it is testament to the professionalism and sheer determination of Steve and Mark, who as enthusiastic amateurs without any experience of restoring a complex military airframe and a budget of only 300 pounds, have transformed XV406 to her former glory.

​Well done lads!  


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Pictures used by kind permission of the Solway Aviation Museum, Aviation House, Carlisle Airport
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