Why is the Supermarine Spitfire famous?
The Spitfire is the most famous plane of World War Two. Its groundbreaking design and superior specifications gave the British a decisive advantage fighting the Luftwaffe in the Battle of Britain.
How many Supermarine Spitfires were shot down?
Just 21 of the 152 Spitfires that were destroyed or damaged from all causes from 1–30 June 1944 were shot down by German fighters.
How fast was the Supermarine Spitfire?
369 mphSupermarine Spitfire / Top speed
Was the Spitfire pressurized?
Designed to fulfill the high altitude fighter role, the Spitfire VII featured a pressurised cabin, extended span wings intially and a two speed, two stage intercooled Merlin engine.
What happened to Supermarine?
Eventually, the Supermarine brand was consumed by Vickers-Armstrongs (Aircraft) as it became part of British Aircraft Corporation in 1960 and although it is fondly remembered in terms of the Spitfire and alike, today it only remains in the USA as a company manufacturing replica aircraft in kit form.
When was the Supermarine Spitfire made?
1938Supermarine Spitfire / Introduced
Designed by Reginald Mitchell, the fighter was built by British aircraft manufacturer Supermarine and delivered in late summer of 1938—a year before war erupted in Europe with the invasion of Poland.
How did Supermarine get its name?
It was named after the daughter of the manufacturer’s chairman. The Spitfire’s name is often assumed to derive from its ferocious firing capabilities. But it likely owes just as much to Sir Robert McLean’s pet name for his young daughter, Ann, who he called “the little spitfire”.
What kind of aircraft was the Supermarine Spitfire?
Supermarine Spitfire is a British single-seat fighter aircraft that served the service for the Royal Air Force as well as for other Allied countries not only during the World War II but also before and after the World War II era. This aircraft was produced in many different variants with modification mainly carried out on its wing configuration.
How many Spitfires were made during World War 2?
Many variants of the Spitfire were built, using several wing configurations, and it was produced in greater numbers than any other British aircraft. It was also the only British fighter produced continuously throughout the war. The Spitfire continues to be popular among enthusiasts; nearly 60 remain airworthy,…
Why was the Spitfire important to the Battle of Britain?
Speedy, agile and equipped with plenty of firepower, the aircraft played a crucial role in the Battle of Britain, duking it out with the Luftwaffe and earning its status as a symbol of the country’s spirited airborne resistance. Here are 10 facts about the Spitfire.
What did the Spitfire do on D Day?
Eager to help thirsty D-Day troops, resourceful Spitfire MK IX pilots modified the plane’s bomb-carrying wings in order that they could carry beer kegs. These “beer bombs” ensured a welcome supply of altitude chilled beer to the Allied troops in Normandy.