The Panavia Tornado comes in two different variants, the F3 air defence and GR1 (soon to be replaced by the GR4) strike fighter. Originally in the strike role the Tornado was equipped with advanced avionics allowing it to fly day or night in all weather. Now the mainstay of west European defence it is in service with many airforces including the Germans and Italians. During the development of the Tornado, the RAF was looking for an aircraft which could intercept enemy Russian bombers from extremely long distances. It would have to be able to be supersonic and have a long, beyond visual range, interception capability. The Tornado ADV (air defence variant) was chosen to be the suitable option. Although not a very capable dog fighter, the ADV fitted its role and although not used during the Cold War, it has been used extensively flying combat air patrol in the Gulf
Tornado GR1
Tornado F3
Tornado GR1s
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