Hawker Siddeley Harrier on HMS Blake during trials
Aug. 03, 1969 - Vtol Fighters land in HMS Blake : The Hawker Siddeley Harrier close support Jet fighter is seen after Landing on the flight deck of HMS blake during trials over the weekend 2nd.3rd August. These trials were the result of a directive by the Ministry of Defence for the Mod (Navy) to study the application of the Harrier for operations from ships in the Nid 1970's. The Aircraft was flown from Dunsfolo Airfield Surrey, England, by the Chief test Pilot of Hawker Siddeley Aviation limited Dunsfold) Mr. Hugh Merewether, to HMS Blake which was operating just south east of the Isle of wight. This was the first occasion that the harrier has Landed on a Royal Naval cruiser. HMS Blake (10, 000 tons) has a flight deck 117 feet long by 56 feet at the widest point. and normally carries a Squadron of four Royal Naval Wessex Mk3 helicopters. It will carry four Sea King helicopters when these Aircraft come into front line service
