The de Havilland Vampire’s prototype, called the “Spider-crab,” became the third British jet to fly on 20 September, 1940. It reached quantity production shortly after the war. In 1948, the RCAF compared it and the Gloster Meteor, in order to determine a new jet fighter to equip the force’s squadrons with. The Vampire was chosen, and 85 of the Mark III variety were ordered. 
These 85 were primarily assigned to auxiliary squadrons, including 442 “City of Vancouver” Auxiliary Fighter Squadron, stationed on Sea Island. 17031, the aircraft here at the museum, was received within this first batch of arrivals, as it was taken on strength on 10 April 1948. Soon it joined three other Vampires, along with nine Harvards, stationed with 442 (aux) on Sea Island. The squadron used the Vampires in local air shows, as well as at summer camps at regular force Bases around Western Canada, where they acquitted themselves well. By 31 March 1950, the Vampires had been moved back east, where 17031 would serve with 402 “City of Winnipeg” Auxiliary Fighter Squadron. Vampire, including 17031, would rejoin 442 Squadron in September 1952. They stayed there until 1956, when they were replaced by F-86 Sabres.
This change paralleled a change that was happening throughout the RCAF. By the early Fifties, it had been determined that the Vampires had been outstripped by newer jet aircraft, especially the Sabre. As a result, they were all taken off strength by 1958. 17031 was sold to a civilian, and was taken out of Canada. It returned only recently, when the Comox Air Force Museum was able to acquire it for our collection.

 

DETAILS

Manufacturer: Built by de Havilland

Designation: DH-100

Model No: DH-100

Marks: Mk I, III

Role: Fighter

TOS: 1948

SOS: 1958

No: 86

Comox Squadron/Unit Use: 442 Squadron (from Sea Island)

Service: RCAF

SPECIFICATIONS

MK III

Crew / Passengers: 1 in ejection seat

Powerplant: one 3,100 lb (1,405 kg) thrust de Havilland Goblin 2 Jet engine

Performance:

• Max Speed: 531 mph (855 km/h)
• Cruising Speed:  
• Service Ceiling: 43,500 ft (13,260 m)
• Range: 

Weights:

• Empty: 7,134 lb (3,235 kg)
• Gross: 11,970 lbs (5,430 kg)

Dimensions:

• Span: 40 ft 0 in (12.19m)
• Length: 30 ft 9 in (9.37m) 
• Height: 8 ft 10 in (2.69 m)
• Wing Area: 226 sq ft ( 20.99 sq m)

Armament: four 20 mm Cannons

Original Cost: Unknown

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