A limited edition aviation print by Michael Rondot titled Lightning Thunder, showing a No. 19 Squadron Lightning F2A taking off with full afterburner.

Lightning Thunder

Price range: £75.00 through £320.00

Of all the classic fighters to have served with the RAF, none had the raw power and breath-taking performance of the Lightning. And of all the Lightning variants the F2A was considered to be the best. In Lightning Thunder, Michael Rondot has created an atmosphere of brute power in his portrayal of a No.19 Squadron Lightning F2A on take-off. This visually stunning print has all the classic Rondot ingredients, including the rare technical accuracy that stands close inspection by the most discerning enthusiast.

Signatures:

  • Signed by the Artist and
  • Group Captain DAVE SEWARD AFC: Dave Seward flew RAF Meteors, Canberra’s and Javelins and USAF F-86, F-102 and F-106 fighters. In 1961, as C.O. of No.56 Sqn he led the ‘Firebirds’ Lightning aerobatic team and later Commanded the Lightning OCU and Battle of Britain Flight, flying the Lancaster, Hurricane and Spitfire.
  • Group Captain ED DURHAM: After Meteor, Javelin and Hunter tours, Ed Durham flew Lightnings with No.74 23 and 92 Sqns and took part in the first trans-Atlantic Lightning flights. In 1977 he commanded No.92 Sqn, the last Lightning F2A unit in RAF Germany.
  • Air Vice-Marshal JOHN HOWE CB CBE AFC: John Howe flew Spitfires, Mustangs and Vampires With the South African Air Force and F-5lD Mustang fighter bombers in the Korean War before joining the RAF ‘to fly Hunters’. He commanded the first RAF Lightning squadron when No.74 Sqn converted from Hunters to Lightnings in 1960, and led the famous No.74 Sqn ‘Tigers’ nine-ship Lightning aerobatic team. He has flown all the legendary USAF ‘century series’ fighters, and later commanded the F-4 Phantom OCU and RAF Gutersloh.
  • Air Marshal SIR JOHN NICHOLLS KCB CBE DFC AFC: A Korean war veteran with 2 MiG kills in F-86 Sabres, John Nicholls has flown every great fighter from the Spitfire to the Phantom, including the USAF century series. In 1959 he was attached to English Electric as RAF project test pilot on Lightnings. He commanded AFDS at RAF Binbrook where in 1963 Lightning vs Spitfire combat trials were flown and later, he commanded RAF Leuchars. He retired as Vice Chief of the Air Staff to become Director in charge, BAe LIGHTNINGS in Saudi Arabia.
  • We have a few multi-signed copies available with at least 38 Lightning pilot signatures including the most distinguished squadron commanders and display pilots. Contact us for availability and pricing.
SKU CLE-00044 Categories , , , ,

Description

Lightning Thunder: Brute Power on Take-off

This visually stunning limited edition print by Michael Rondot captures the raw energy of the English Electric Lightning F2A. The painting depicts a No. 19 Squadron aircraft during a high-power departure. Specifically, it showcases the “skyrocket” performance that defined the type. Furthermore, many pilots considered the F2A the finest variant due to its improved handling. This limited edition print serves as a definitive tribute to the only all-British fighter capable of exceeding Mach 2. You can explore our Lightning collection by visiting our Classic Jets Collection today.

The Interceptor: Defending the V-Bomber Force

English Electric designed the Lightning to protect British nuclear airfields from supersonic Soviet bombers. Its unique design features two Rolls-Royce Avon turbojets in a vertical, staggered configuration. In addition, this layout provided an exceptional rate of climb and a high service ceiling. This limited edition print highlights the aircraft’s role as a primary Cold War guardian. Consequently, the Lightning stood ready for decades to intercept “Bear” and “Badger” bombers over the North Sea. As a result, it became the backbone of UK air defense.

No. 19 and No. 92 Squadrons famously operated the F2A variant out of RAF Gutersloh. Notably, the aircraft’s tactical green liveries became symbols of NATO’s air defense in Europe. Michael Rondot’s artwork achieves a rare technical accuracy. In fact, it captures the shimmering heat and metal of a live scramble with perfect detail. This limited edition print reflects the intense concentration of the pilots who mastered this machine. Moreover, the F2A remained a pilot favorite for its responsiveness during high-G combat maneuvers.

A Limited Edition Print Collector’s Gem Signed by Legends

Every copy of this limited edition print possesses immense historical value through its verified provenance. The artist personally signs each print. Additionally, a panel of legendary Lightning pilots also signs the work. For example, the signatories include Air Marshal Sir John Nicholls, a Korean War ace. Finally, other distinguished signatures include Group Captains Dave Seward and Ed Durham. Indeed, we offer rare multi-signed copies featuring over 38 signatures from famous commanders. Therefore, shop our gallery today to secure your own piece of British engineering heritage. You can find more Lightning preservation news here in the UK by visiting the Lightning Preservation Group .

Additional information

Dimensions 70 × 50 cm
Print Type

Signed and Numbered, Multi Signed and Numbered, Artists Proof, Remarque, Multi Signed Remarque, Double Remarque, Canvas Print

Reviews

There are no reviews yet.

Be the first to review “Lightning Thunder”

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *