As the Allies' first operational jet fighter, the Meteor underwent rapid development, especially of its engines. The underpowered 1943 prototype was transformed by a sequence of more powerful engines into an outstanding multi-role aircraft. The Meteor stayed in production until 1956, a total of 3,947 were built. This aircraft is from 245(F) Squadron based at RAF Horsham St Faith which took part in the 1951 flight refuelling trials.