This single-seater fighter bomber, NZ 5770, was one of 47 Vampires ordered from the UK by the RNZAF for delivery during 1951–52. The first DH100 Vampire flew in September 1943. Vampires were also made as single-seat interceptor fighters and two-seat advanced trainers.

Additional information (and noted photos) kindly provided by John Skene

The aircraft carries the markings of a RNZAF machine (NZ5770)

Prior to going on display at the Southward Museum this ‘jet’ saw RAF service as WA444 and was delivered to the RAF 20 July 1951, remaining in service there till May 1956.

Around six weeks later, NZ5770 joined the RNZAF eventually taking part in exercise ‘Silver Bullet’ the farewell tour of New Zealand to mark the withdrawal of the Vampire from service during late 1972. By this time the aircraft had flow for some 2,764 hours.

This aircraft was put up for tender in 1973 and acquired by the museum in March 1973.

The de Havilland Goblin engine first ran during April 1942 and flew in a Vampire aircraft in September 1943 and produced a respectable 3,000 lb of thrust.

Remember that WW2 still had two years to run.

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