LetLetLet ~ Warplanes
Let Let Let - Warplanes => Combat Warplanes => Topic started by: mfg495 on April 30, 2007, 11:35:07 PM
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Built before the war started, this Spitfire was designed for an attempt on the World Air Speed Record. The modified aircraft was known as the Speed Spitfire and first flew on 11 November 1938. Unfortunately, before an attempt on the record could be made, the Messerschmitt Me 209 raised the record beyond the reach of a modified Spitfire.
When the war did start, this aircraft was converted to usable operational condition by the fitment of a Merlin XII engine with a three bladed airscrew.
Because it would have needed a lot of work to change it to the fighter version, it was fitted with an oblique camera on the port side and sent to the Photographic Reconnaissance Unit (PRU). It only flew one operational reconnaissance mission. Because having only a 60 gallon fuel tank (designed for its record attempt) it did not have the range require for recce work.
It remained in service has a high speed run around until 1946.
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I was always wonder why on basis of this special fighter version was not manufactured small series of special fighters. This Spitfire have more then good windscreen but maybe due to the manufacturer technology of the time this maybe givers blurred vision on some areas.
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The prop is very interesting. It almost looks like it's fixed pitch?
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I think you are right about the prop. However, I cannot find any reference to it.