In 1949, Hawker designed the P1081 in response to an Australian requirement for a fighter to be licence built in Australia. The P1081 is thus often referred to as the 'Australian Fighter' and first flew in 1950. Due to engine delays and other concerns, Australia selected the NA F-86 instead but what if they had picked the P1081?
Hawker reverted to its WW2 storm naming tradition and named the P1081 the Hawker Cyclone. The RAAF contracted Commonwealth Aircraft Corporation to licence build 60 as the CA-24 Cyclone. 30 as the Mk1 and a further 30 as the Mk2 aircraft with additonal hardpoints. This one, A86-132, is the last from the first production batch built at the CAC factory in Fishermans Bend. She is shown in service with 3 Squadron based at RAAF Williamtown in August 1956.
Here's how she looked before painting - not a pretty sight!
David
