Supermarine Spitfire

The Supermarine Spitfire, often referred to as simply ‘Spitfire’, is a British fighter plane which gave the British dominance in the air in the Battle of Britain during World War 2. First produced in 1936 by manufacturer Supermarine, a handful of Spitfires have survived to still be airworthy well into the 21st century.

 

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The ultimate Spitfire? Supermarine Spiteful and Seafang examined

Were these two Spitfire developments a step too far? In this month’s Aeroplane Database, Tony Buttler investigates

Legendary Spitfire pilot Carolyn Grace dies

The historic aviation world is mourning a trailblazing operator and pilot

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Why does the 'Suffolk Spitfire' boast a USAAF scheme?

When the United States Army Air Forces entered the war in Europe, Spitfires appeared adorned with stars and bars. Darren Harbar reveals why and details their operations with the 309th Fighter Squadron in North Africa

Sunken Spitfire recovery appeal launched

A group in North Yorkshire led by David Daniells believes that it has pinpointed the site of a wartime Spitfire crash on the Norfolk Broads. It is currently raising funds to conduct a professional survey in order to establish the extent of any remains…

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How's one of the world's most fascinating Spitfire restorations progressing?

A primary aim in returning Spitfire PRIV AA810 to flying condition is to pay tribute to the RAF’s photo-reconnaissance squadrons — and to do so with a meticulous rebuild of this very rare machine

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Spitfire return to flight project begins

The Spitfire is among three aircraft acquired by a museum

Can you help a Spitfire recovery?

Crowd-funding appeal started with aim of bringing MkVb AD377 up from its Norfolk resting-place 

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Flying a Spitfire: An unexpected journey

FlyPast’s James Peene and Jamie Ewan enjoyed the ride of a lifetime when they visited Aerial Collective – a flight in a Spitfire…

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Battle of Britain’s forgotten ‘Few’: a brave naval aviator

The tragic tale of Fleet Air Arm pilot Arthur Blake, who fought in the RAF alongside a childhood friend

Aero Legends’ Spitfire salutes The Queen

Aero Legends has modified the nose-art on Supermarine Spitfire T.IX NH341 to pay tribute to Her Majesty The Queen

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Spitfire Plane Facts, News and Restorations

This page is the only place you need for everything Spitfire related; from interesting historical facts to the latest news on restoration projects, Spitfire appearances and more! For example, did you know that early models of the Spitfire had issues with their Browning machine guns freezing at higher altitudes, a problem that was not addressed until 1938 when a heating system was added to the gun bays.

No military plane has become such a renowned symbol of British Airforce superiority both in terms of its engineering prowess and illustrious military record. The Spitfire has become one of the most popular military aircraft amongst restorers, enthusiasts and airshow attendees alike and for the British represents a symbol of victory. Powered by two Rolls Royce Merlin or Griffon engines, the Spitfire was fast with later variants hitting a top speed of 454mph, making it a formidable and agile foe when it came to short range dog fights giving the RAF the slightest of advantages in critical battles of WW2.

Despite being outnumbered by the Hurricane during the battle of Britain, The Spitfire suffered fewer overall losses and had a higher victory to loss ratio. This, in part, is what lead many of the British to believe that the Spitfire was the reason the Battle of Britain was won. In reality the combination of the two planes and their skilful pilots is what lead the British to victory in the skies.

Of all the legendary fighter, bomber and transport military aircraft from this period, the Spitfire is the one that has captured the hearts and minds of countless enthusiasts and lead to a myriad of restoration projects, airshows and museum pieces.

Take a look at our Spitfire related articles below to find out more about this legendary Warbird aircraft. Discover more articles on vintage aircraft restorations.

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