French Nuclear Bomber Begins Journey To UK

A French nuclear bomber has started the journey to its new home in the UK, after being gifted by the French government.

The Mirage IV strategic nuclear aircraft will be the only one in the world to be displayed outside of France after it completes the four-day journey by road and sea.

The 77 feet long and 39 feet wide plane was disassembled into several parts for the trip and will be on display at the Yorkshire Air Museum, Elvington.

Around 2,300 French personnel served at the former RAF Elvington during World War Two.

The Mirage IV entered service in 1964 as part of France's Cold War nuclear deterrent.

A total of 66 of the aircraft were built, and operated as strike and reconnaissance planes during the Gulf and Afghanistan wars.

It was retired from operational service in 2005.

The Mirage is expected to arrive at the museum on Thursday (30 March) evening.

The aircraft had been housed at the Citie de Sciences museum in Paris, and will be replaced by a Rafale jet.

Cover image courtesy of Yorkshire Air Museum.