[edit]
After the World War II
Meteors saw prolonged service during the Korean War with No. 77 Squadron Royal Australian Air Force. The unit had a few early successes in jet versus jet combat, against less-experienced MiG-15 pilots. However, increasing losses to the newer and generally superior Soviet-built fighters saw Meteors relegated to ground attack duties, a role in which they performed well.

Production of the aircraft continued until 1954 and almost 3,900 were made, mainly the Mk. 8. The Meteor was also operated by the airforces of Argentina, Belgium, Brazil, France, Egypt, Israel, Syria and Sweden. Late versions, beginning with the F.8 in 1948 were the first British production aircraft to be equipped with ejection seats.

Although many Gloster Meteors survive in Museums and collections only five remain airworthy, four in the United Kingdom and a F8 fighter which was exported to Australia in 2002.

[edit]
Specifications (variant described)
[edit]
General characteristics
type: Meteor F.MkI
Crew: 1
Capacity: 1
Length: 41 ft (12.5 m)
Wingspan: 43 ft (13.1 m)
Height: 13 ft (4.0 m)
Wing area: 374 ft² (34.7 m²)
Empty: 8,140 lb (3,690 kg)
Loaded: lb ( kg)
Maximum takeoff: 13,800 lb (6,260 kg)
Powerplant: Engine type(s), 2 × Rolls-Royce W.2B/23C Welland I turbojets, rated at 1700 lbf (7.56 kN) st dry each
(Information source: http://www.xs4all.nl/~fbonne/warbirds/ww2htmls/glosmeteor.html)

[edit]
Performance
Maximum speed: 417 mi/h (670 km/h)
Range: 1000 mi (1610 km)
Service ceiling: ft ( m)
Rate of climb: ft/min ( m/min)
Wing loading: kg/m² ( lb/ft²)
Thrust/weight: