Among the most famous aircraft of all time, the Spitfire, which was designed by W. Mitchell in 1936, began operations before World War II and was one of the few pre-war types to remain in first-line service until the end of the war and beyond. As the war progressed, the Spitfire received heavier armament and more powerful engines until it was twice as heavy and powerful as the original version. In all, 21,554 were built in 24 different Marks, including some 1,220 Seafires fitted for aircraft carrier operations.

Recommended Reading Supermarine Spitfire By Mike Spick The Battle of Britain By Richard Ward The RAF At War By Ralph Barker

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