Lightning

The Commonwealth Aerospace Corporation (CAC) Lightning is one of the most capable pure interceptors in service as of 2156. It is a classic design, with its service entry in 2105. Though somewhat old, the Lightning has been kept in service by virtue of its excellent kinematics.

Description
The CAC Lightning's configuration is best described as 'odd'. Its wings have an extremely short chord and high leading-edge sweep angle, while the two Rolls-Royce Jaguar nuclear turbines are mounted one atop the other, drawing their cryogenic liquid-hydrogen fuel from a bizarrely-bulged tank occupying much of the aircraft's lower fuselage. The two primary missile hardpoints are located on either side of the fuselage, below and slightly aft of the cockpit.

Variants
Lightning F.1- CAC/RAF development version, 8 built

Lightning F.2- Initial RAF operational version, 60 built

Lightning F.3- Upgraded RAF version with nuclear launch capability, BLUE STREAK missile, and RED WIND radar, 72 built

Lightning F.3A- Upgraded F.2 to F.3 standard, minus nuclear launch capability, 48 converted and transferred to IRAF

Lightning T.4- Two-seat trainer variant distributed to operational-conversion units. 36 built.