The Lightning Training Flight (LTF) orginally formed as "C" flight of 11 Squadron with five Lightning T5s, but it quickly became apparent that a dedicated Lightning training unit was necessary.  Thus, the LTF was formed as a stand-alone unit in October 1975 with four T5s and three F3s on charge.  The unit continued training operations until 1987, when the LTF was disbanded.

The LTF's squadron badge incorporated the lion of RAF Binbrook's badge; in addition, natural metal-finished aircraft had blue roundel bars on the forward fuselage. 

Markings are provided for one Lightning F3 towards the end of its career with the LTF, in a three-tone tactical gray camoflage scheme with a blue fuselage spine and fin.  This aircraft now serves as a gate guard at RAF Binbrook.  Unlike the other Xtradecal Lightning sheets, this set does include stenciling, incorporating some of the white stencils required for the gray scheme; unfortunately the white wing walkway stripes are not included.  Designs are sharply printed and in perfect register.

 It would have been nice if Xtradecal had provided the smaller lion badges for line LTF aircraft, along with additional serials and codes.  That said, the faded roundels and white stencils can be adapted, along with codes from Xtradecal or the spares box, with Xtradecal's 5 and 11 Squadron sheets to make Lightning F6s in the final gray tactical scheme. 

A nice decal sheet with one of the most interesting schemes ever applied to a Lightning F3. (Note that the sheet has been darkened so you can see the white markings. Ed)

Review sample provided by Hannant's.

REFERENCES:

Lake, Jon: "English Electric Lightning"; Wings of Fame Volume 7, 1997

Aviation Picture Hangar website:  http://www.aviation-picture-hangar.co.uk/Lightning.html  

October 2009