Description
Former RAF Tornado navigator John Nichol takes us through his transition from the Tornado GR1 to the Tornado F3. John shares what it was like making the move, covering the ground school and flying training, the similarities and differences between the two aircraft, and eventually joining XI Squadron.
We also discuss Dissimilar Air Combat Training (DACT), life on the squadron, the social side and plenty of entertaining stories along the way.
We wrap up by talking about his latest book ‘ Blitz’.
https://link.amazon/B05cX4Zoz
Follow John:
https://www.johnnichol.com/
https://x.com/JohnNicholRAF
https://www.facebook.com/john.nichol.731
https://www.instagram.com/johnnicholrafxv/
Thanks to Ian Black for the the photos - https://www.firestreakbooks.com
Thanks to Philip Stevens for the photos -https://www.targeta.co.uk
0:00 GR1 to F3 transition
5:09 Operating the F3
10:21 Adapting to a new role
13:00 Technical and operational shifts
17:55 Frontline squadron experiences
21:55 The realities of sitting Q
24:53 Air combat training
29:45 Squadron social life
36:45 Public profile and career
40:13 Reflecting on an era
45:56 Writing the Blitz and closing