XV232 Relocation

Nimrod XV232 – Relocation, Fundraising & Volunteer Update (2026)

Overland Move to Manston Under Review

The future of Hawker Siddeley Nimrod XV232 remains under active review as the team works against time to secure a permanent home.

One of the primary options being developed is transporting the aircraft by road from Coventry Airport to the RAF Manston History Museum.

• This would involve careful dismantling of major components (including engines, wings, and tail sections). 
• The aircraft would then be moved in sections via heavy transport vehicles. 
• Once at Manston, it would be reassembled and preserved for public display. 

This overland move remains a critical fallback option since a ferry flight cannot be achieved. 

Fundraising Efforts

Preserving XV232 and enabling its relocation requires significant financial support.

Current fundraising efforts include:

• Public donations and Zeffy campaigns 
• Engine run events (now concluded as Coventry operations wind down) 
• Merchandise sales via the XV232 shop 
• Grants and sponsorship support 

These funds are essential to cover:

• Specialist dismantling and transport costs 
• Engineering inspections and restoration work 
• Logistics for relocation and reassembly 

The project has emphasized that without sufficient funding, the aircraft risks being scrapped if no viable move can be completed. 

Volunteers Needed

The project is actively calling for skilled volunteers to help bring XV232 to a condition suitable for relocation—or potentially even a ferry flight.

According to the latest update:

• Volunteers are needed in airframe, avionics, and engine trades 
• The goal is to help return the aircraft to operational condition for a possible ferry flight 
• Experience with Nimrod or similar aircraft is especially valuable 

This is a hands-on preservation effort, and the team is encouraging anyone with relevant expertise to get involved directly. 

Urgency of the Project

With the closure and redevelopment of Coventry Airport approaching, the timeline is extremely tight.

The team is currently balancing two possible outcomes:

1. Road transport relocation (most practical fall-back) 
2. Worst-case scenario: scrapping the aircraft 

The focus remains firmly on saving XV232 and securing its long-term future. 

How People Can Help

Supporters can contribute by:

• Donating to fundraising campaigns 
• Volunteering technical skills 
• Purchasing merchandise 
• Raising awareness across social media