Lancaster ASR Mk III RF324 of No. 279 Squadron RAF dropping lifeboat
The Lancaster ASR III
The Lancaster ASR (Air Sea Rescue) was an interim solution to the RAF’s need for a viable maritime reconnaissance aircraft after World War II.
- The Lancaster ASR.III was fitted with an Airborne Lifeboat IIA.
- The RAF struggled with its maritime role and the lack of a dedicated General Reconnaissance/Maritime Reconnaissance aircraft led to the conversion of some ASR Lancasters to GR (General Reconnaissance) machines in 1947.
- These GR aircraft were fitted with ASV radar in the H2S radome, and a rear-facing camera was added in a pod under the rear turret.
- In 1950, the GR aircraft were retitled MR (Maritime Reconnaissance) aircraft.
- Some MR Lancasters were fitted with Lincoln-style undercarriages.
- The MR Lancaster continued in service until replaced by the Shackleton.
One specific Lancaster, RA805, was modified for maritime reconnaissance for the Royal Swedish Air Force. It was strengthened to carry a turbojet in the bomb bay.