Al Byford’s first experience of conflict came as a Tornado pilot during the 1991 Gulf War.
In this RAF Stories account, he describes the Tornado’s performance at low altitude and the demands placed upon its crew.
Al later commanded No. 31 Squadron, helped introduce the Brimstone missile into RAF service and completed numerous operational deployments, including service in Afghanistan.
His career reflects the RAF’s transition from Cold War planning to repeated expeditionary operations.
