Wt723

BirminghamUnited Kingdom 52° N · 1° W Verified Oct 2026

Nestled within Birmingham’s rich tapestry of aviation heritage and industrial evolution, WT723 stands as a remarkable symbol of British military aviation…

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What WT723 is

WT723 is presented in the available accounts in two different aircraft contexts. At the SCC Technology Campus in Tyseley, Birmingham, it is described as a Hawker Hunter: the overview calls it a Hunter F4, while the service history describes its conversion from a GA11 to PR11 standard. The guide also identifies an English Electric Canberra PR.3 as WT723 at the Royal Air Force Museum Cosford. The Tyseley display and the Cosford museum are discussed below as separate visitor destinations.

The guide links these aircraft and displays with Britain’s aviation and industrial heritage, the Cold War, and the development of aerial reconnaissance. It describes the Birmingham display and the Cosford collection as educational experiences, with interactive exhibits, interpretive plaques, and special events celebrating industrial and technological achievements.

History

Hawker Hunter: RAF service

Built by Hawker Aircraft Company Ltd in Kingston, Surrey, WT723 first flew on February 16, 1955, with Duncan Simpson as pilot. It entered Royal Air Force service on March 25, 1955, at 5 Maintenance Unit, RAF Kemble (Classic Jets).

WT723 served with 54(F) Squadron at RAF Odiham and 14(F) Squadron in Germany, then joined 229 Operational Conversion Unit at RAF Chivenor for pilot training.

Royal Navy conversion and later service

After newer Hunter F6s superseded it, WT723 was adapted for Royal Navy service as a GA11 ground attack trainer. Modifications included a TACAN system and an arrestor hook. It was assigned to 764 Squadron at RNAS Lossiemouth and later upgraded to PR11 photo-reconnaissance standard (Classic Jets).

The aircraft continued as a replacement for the Supermarine Scimitar at RNAS Yeovilton and joined the Fleet Requirements and Direction Unit. It retired from flying duties in 1993, was used for ground training at RNAS Culdrose, and was then stored.

Civilian ownership and airshow career

Lynn Florey acquired WT723 and registered it as G-PRII. Following a civilian test flight in 1999, it appeared at airshows, including the Beavechain Airshow in Belgium. It was later featured in Team Viper, performing at major events such as the Dubai Airshow (Classic Jets).

Preservation at Tyseley

As of 2023, the Hunter was on static display at the SCC Technology Campus, painted in Royal Navy markings. The display commemorates its service and offers a link to Britain’s Cold War aviation history (Thunder & Lightnings; BHX Spotter).

Canberra at RAF Museum Cosford

The account of RAF Museum Cosford identifies its WT723 as an English Electric Canberra PR.3. Built in the late 1940s, the Canberra was a jet-powered bomber and the first of its kind in the RAF, noted in the account for its speed, altitude, and versatility. The Canberra PR.3 played a significant role in Cold War reconnaissance (RAF Museum Cosford).

Photographic reconnaissance missions supported the UK’s intelligence efforts during the Cold War. The preserved aircraft at Cosford is described as part of the museum’s educational programs, guided tours, and commemorative events, and as reflecting Birmingham’s connections with engineering, innovation, and defence.

What to see

Hawker Hunter at SCC Technology Campus

The Hawker Hunter WT723 is displayed on a plinth at the SCC Technology Campus in Tyseley, at Warwick Road and Battery Way. The outdoor display is painted in Royal Navy markings.

Technical specifications:

  • Engine: Rolls Royce Avon 122, 7,425 lbs thrust
  • Wingspan: 33 ft 8 in (10.25 m)
  • Length: 45 ft 10.5 in (13.98 m)
  • Height: 13 ft 2 in (4.0 m)
  • Empty weight: 12,510 lbs
  • Maximum speed: Mach 0.94 at 36,000 ft
  • Service ceiling: 47,000 ft
  • Range: 590 nautical miles
  • Armament: None (as PR variant)

Canberra at RAF Museum Cosford

Cosford has over 70 aircraft, including WT723 in the National Cold War Exhibition (Cold War Exhibition). Visitors can see interactive displays and take part in guided tours, educational workshops, and special events held throughout the year.

WT723 visitor center in central Birmingham

A WT723 visitor center is described as being near Birmingham New Street Station, close to the Library of Birmingham and Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery. It offers exhibits about Birmingham’s industrial and cultural evolution, including interactive displays, historical artifacts, and guided tours. The center also hosts workshops, temporary exhibitions, and community events.

Practical visiting information

Tyseley: SCC Technology Campus

The outdoor Hunter display is open for viewing during daylight hours, free of charge. No tickets are required. The site is wheelchair accessible and can be reached by car or public transport. Parking is available along Warwick Road, and frequent bus connections run to central Birmingham. Check local travel updates and weather forecasts before visiting.

RAF Museum Cosford

  • Location Royal Air Force Museum Cosford, about 30 miles from Birmingham city center.
  • Hours Open daily, 10:00 AM–5:00 PM; last admission at 4:30 PM.
  • Admission Free general admission. Special exhibitions or events may require tickets; see the official website.
  • Accessibility Ramps, lifts, and accessible restrooms are available.
  • Transportation Ample parking is available onsite. Frequent trains run from Birmingham New Street to Cosford station.

Central Birmingham visitor center

  • Location Near Birmingham New Street Station, close to the Library of Birmingham and Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery.
  • Access Public transport serves the area; parking is nearby, and pedestrian and cycling routes are available.
  • Hours Daily, 9:00 AM–5:00 PM, with longer hours during summer and special events.
  • Admission General entry is free; some exhibitions or tours may require a nominal fee.
  • Group tours Available by pre-booking.
  • Facilities Fully wheelchair accessible, with an on-site café, restrooms, and a gift shop selling local souvenirs.

For the latest schedule, check the official website or visit the center. The guide also recommends the Audiala app for guided tours and exclusive content.

Visitor tips

  • Bring a camera: photography is encouraged at both the Tyseley and Cosford sites.
  • Check museum and visitor center websites for current hours, events, and accessibility information.
  • Guided tours at Cosford can provide further information about the exhibits.
  • Both sites are described as suitable for families, with interactive activities for children.
  • Photography is permitted at all sites, though some exhibits have restrictions on flash or video.

Nearby places

Frequently asked questions

What are the visiting hours for WT723 in Birmingham?
The outdoor Tyseley display can be viewed during daylight hours. RAF Museum Cosford is open daily from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with last admission at 4:30 PM.

Is admission free?
The Tyseley display and Cosford Museum offer free general admission. Some Cosford special exhibitions or events may require tickets. The central Birmingham visitor center also has free general entry, though some exhibitions or tours may have a nominal fee.

Are the sites accessible?
The Tyseley display and Cosford Museum are wheelchair accessible. The visitor center is fully wheelchair accessible.

Are guided tours available?
Guided tours are available at Cosford Museum and, for groups, at the visitor center by pre-booking.

Can I take photos?
Photography is permitted at all sites. It is encouraged at Tyseley and Cosford, though some exhibits have restrictions on flash or video.