Probably the most famous British aircraft of all time, the great fighter played a secondary role in the Battle of Britain to the less glamourous Hawker Hurricane. But the Spitfire’s elegant looks, excellent handling characteristics, and huge production give it a unique place in aviation history. There was a bit of happenstance in the Spitfire’s development, in that, by 1936, a prototype already existed, in the hands of a private company, ready and waiting for Britain’s upcoming hour of need.
Specs for Spitfire Mark VA
Top Speed: 369 m.p.h.
Manufacturer: Supermarine
Year: 1941
Engine: 1478 h.p. Rolls-Royce Merlin Vee
Wingspan: 36 feet 10 inches
Weight: empty 4,998 nlbs.
Armament: eight .30 caliber Browning machine guns