Ian Black - Flying the English Electric Lightning (157)

Ian Black is a former RAF Fighter Pilot with a passion for photography and motorcycles. He began his flying career with the legendary McDonnell Douglas F-4 Phantom in RAF Germany at the height of the Cold War. 

After three years flying as a navigator Ian underwent Pilot Training in 1984-1986 during which time he was awarded prizes for flying ability , aerobatics and unsurprisingly navigation skills. 

On completion of his flying training Ian was selected to fly the English electric Lightning in the Air Defence Role. Twenty five years earlier, Ian’s father had been one of the RAF’s first Lightning Pilots and his son was set to become the last. Serving on 11(F) Squadron. 

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I am delighted to welcome Ian Black to our Cold War conversation…

Check our Ian's great photography books here https://www.firestreakbooks.com/

There’s further information on this episode in our show notes,plus a book giveaway which can also be found as a link in your podcast app here. https://coldwarconversations.com/episode157/

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0:00 Introduction to guest Ian Black and his flying career

15:45 The use of IFF identification and challenges during the Cold War

28:09 RAF's vetting process and the lack of background checks in the 70s and 80s

33:19 Realistic training methods of the RAF and struggles with pilot training

41:32 Recommendation of Cold War TV on YouTube

43:32 Ian Black's experience flying the English Electric Lightning

55:23 Interception of a Russian bomber: a life-defining moment

1:00:20 Air refueling: strategy, coordination, and challenges

1:09:24 The responsibilities and challenges of flying a single-seat Lightning

1:12:28 Ian Black's photography, Firestreak Books, and future projects

1:17:44 acknowledgement of financial supporters

1:18:33 Closing remarks and continuation of the Cold War conversation on Facebook

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