How many MK are in a Spitfire?

How many MK are in a Spitfire?

There were 24 marks of Spitfire and many sub-variants. These covered the Spitfire in development from the Merlin to Griffon engines, the high-speed photo-reconnaissance variants and the different wing configurations. More Spitfire Mk Vs were built than any other type, with 6,487 built, followed by the 5,656 Mk IXs.

What was the fastest Spitfire variant?

The F Mk 24 achieved a maximum speed of 454 mph (731 km/h) and could reach an altitude of 30,000 ft (9,100 m) in eight minutes, putting it on a par with the most advanced piston-engined fighters of the era. Although designed as a fighter-interceptor aircraft, the Spitfire proved its versatility in other roles.

What engine did the Spitfire Mk IX have?

Merlin 61
IX used the Merlin 61, and was the only version produced until early 1943 1,255 F.Mk IXs were produced. It was then joined by a version powered by the Merlin 66. This engine produced its best performance at slightly lower altitudes than the Merlin 61. Spitfires equipped with this engine were designated LF Mk IX.

What was the last MK of Spitfire?

The Mk. 24 was the final variant of the Spitfire and this particular aircraft, built in 1947 (registration VN485), saw RAF service in Hong Kong with 80 Sqdn and later with the Royal Hong Kong Defence Force until 1955.

Why did the Spitfire have 8 guns?

They calculated the exact distance the fighters had to be from the enemy aircraft to successfully hit their target and bring it down in two seconds – the amount of time a pilot could be expected to keep an enemy in their sights – it would have to have eight machine guns that could fire one thousand rounds a minute.

Is Spitfire better than BF 109?

The Bf 109 was arguably the best fighter in the world in 1940. It was faster than the Spitfire at high altitude, could dive more rapidly and carried a more effective armament of two cannon and two machine guns. The Luftwaffe started the Battle with about 1,100 Bf 109s and 906 pilots available.

Which is faster Spitfire or Mustang?

The maximum speed of a P51D was 437mph whilst the Spitfire was slightly faster at 448mph. For interception, this was clearly quite important. However, the P51D was generally more specialized than the Spitfire. In it’s main role, the Mustang proved itself as a superb escort fighter in Allied bombing raids over Germany.

Was the Spitfire pressurized?

Produced from 1942 it was designed for tactical reconnaissance but could climb high to avoid enemy fighters but did not have a pressurised cockpit. First production Spitfire with the Griffon engine and entered limited service with two squadrons from October 1942.

Which was faster Spitfire or Mustang?

The Mustang was also much quicker than the Spitfire, with a much longer combat range. The Mustang also flew much higher than the Spitfire, giving it a noticeable advantage. North American also equipped the Mustang with more weaponry, as well as a much faster climb rate.

Who made the Supermarine Spitfire?

Supermarine
Supermarine Spitfire/Manufacturers

Was the Messerschmitt or Spitfire better?

It was faster than the Spitfire at high altitude, could dive more rapidly and carried a more effective armament of two cannon and two machine guns. However, the Messerschmitt did not have the range to fly beyond London and carried only seven seconds worth of cannon ammunition, which limited its operational usefulness.

When did the Supermarine Spitfire Mk XII come out?

The Mk XII was strictly an interim design, and for once (unlike the Mk V and Mk IX) did not enter mass production. Only 100 were built, equipping two squadrons – No.41 received its Mk XIIs in February 1943, and No.91 in April 1943.

How big is the wing of a Supermarine Spitfire?

Supermarine Spitfire- Late Merlin and Griffon engine variants. L.F Mk IXe Mk XII Mk XIVe F. Mk 24; Wingspan 32 ft 6 in (9.9 m) 32 ft 6 in (9.9 m) 36 ft 10 in (11.23 m) 36 ft 11 in (11.25 m) Wing area 231 ft² (21.46 m²) 231 ft² (21.46 m²) 242.1 ft² (22.5 m²) 243.6 ft² (23.6 m²) Length 31 ft 1 in (9.47 m)

What kind of engine does a Spitfire have?

Spitfire Mk VIII. Merlin 63, 66 or 70 engine with a two-stage, two—speed supercharger.

What was the Spitfire used for in the Royal Navy?

The Spitfire was also adopted for service on aircraft carriers of the Royal Navy; in this role they were renamed Supermarine Seafire.