Your chance to buy a jet fighter

The Panavia Tornado GR1 ZA355 includes two Martin Baker MK10A ejector seats, a head-up display and a cockpit that is largely intact

A rare RAF Tornado fighter jet which has been rebuilt over the last 16 months and brought back to its former glory has gone up for sale.

Finished and specced almost identically to when it last served, the Panavia Tornado GR1 ZA355 includes two Martin Baker MK10A ejector seats, a head-up display and a cockpit that is largely intact. 

Similar aircraft to the Tornado have sold for in the region of £70,000, but the price depends on the plane’s condition. A Tornado with no engines or guns and the wings detached was offered for sale earlier this year for £20,000.

The fighter jet is being sold by Yorkshire-based company Jet Art Aviation. The company is also currently restoring a Harrier Jump Jet and a Jaguar. 

Chris Wilson, managing director of Jet Art Aviation and a former RAF engineering technician, said: “This is likely to be one of only a few times an RAF Tornado is offered for sale. We have put over 1,000 hours into this project and tens of thousands of pounds worth of parts. It’s one amazing piece of kit and stunning looking. It’s perfect as the ultimate garden feature for the individual who wants that ‘wow’ factor.”

The aircraft was first flown in 1980 and served the first part of its life at the Tornado training establishment at RAF Cottesmore in Rutland. The jet was retired to a ground instructional role where it served as the RAF Lossiemouth weapons load trainer. It last flew in 2001. 

Wilson said: “We are seeing companies investing in aircraft like this as a promotional tool outside their premises. Investors building up private collections also see the benefit of adding aircraft to their financial portfolio. 

“Historic military aircraft statistically increase in value fairly sharply, and in post-recession times those who can are investing in ex-military aircraft as a modern alternative to stocks and shares.

“It’s our bread and butter to restore military aircraft. The Tornado was chosen partly due to the passion the team have for aviation, and partly for sentimental reasons. I worked on Tornadoes in the RAF.”