Imported into Australia in November, 2003 registered as G-GNAT with TTIS: 3200.55 hours.
Fatigue Index: 161.25847.
Fatigue Index Life Limit: 203.5.
Engine: Rolls Royce Orpheus 101/01, serial number: 410132.
Engine hour TSO: 656.20.
Engine hours TBO: 800.
Engine Time to overhaul: 143.8 hours.
Speeds: 520 knots IAS / Mach 0.92.
Supersonic Range in a shallow dive Mach 1.15-1.25.
Cruise 360 knots/2,000'/84% RPM.
Initial rate of climb 20,000'/minute, brakes release to 20,000' in 3 1/4 minutes, roll rate of 570 degrees/second.
Range: 900 nm at 41,000'.
With performance like this no wonder the Folland Gnat is referred to as the Ferrari of the sky.
The Gnat was very different in design, concept and performance from the aircraft previously used by the RAF flying training schools. It had originally been conceived as a single seat light fighter and was used in that capacity by the Indian and Finnish air forces. Through its role in the RAF was essentially advanced flying training, with only a secondary operational capability, the Gnat remained far more a two seat fighter than the conventional idea of a two seat trainer.