We knew the end was coming when we started the SIG, but it didn't diminish the sadness we felt when the RAF finally retired the Tornado. It is still in use overseas and that has softened the blow to a great degree. 

With the retirement of the GR4 our job as a SIG is perhaps even more important. To join simply sign up to our Facebook group.

After visiting Bruntingthorpe on a Cold War Jets Open Day, the SIG is pleased to present a walk around of ZA326, a truly unique and very important airframe.

It was fantastic to meet everyone involved with The Panavia Tornado Preservation Group and I'd like to thank them for the chat and warm welcome. If any SIG members or website visitors are keen to support the preservation of ZA326 please do visit their website and donate a penny or two.

The aircraft is essentially ready for a taxi run, but there are two 'small' components missing. If anyone happens to have some Turbo Union RB199's........

I look forward to following ZA326's progress.

For additional images, there are many, many interesting pictures on their Flickr photo stream

BAe half year report states that the MOD has confirmed the Tornado out of service date is March 2019. 

Click here for the report (see page 8, column 1 under Military Air & Information)

Personnel and aircraft from RAF Marham have departed for Exercise Shaheen Star, taking place in the United Arab Emirates. Tornado GR4s from 31 Squadron will conduct intensive training over a number of weeks, working alongside air forces from partner nations in the region.

Photographs: RAF/MOD Crown Copyright 2012

In early 2013, JaboG 32 will disband and about 30 ECRs will be passed to AG 51. The NATO Tiger tradition may be passed onto a Eurofighter squadron.

The Dambuster squadrons four month deployment in Afghanistan ended on the 18th of July.  617 squadron flew more than 600 missions, expending Brimstone, Paveway IV and strafe runs against insurgents.

Tornado GR4 operations have been passed onto 2 (AC) Sqn.

Source: RAF News (link 1, link 2)