Supermarine Spitfire L.F. Mk.IX

  • Period: Second World War (1939-1945)
  • Uses: Fighter
  • First Flight: March 6, 1936 (prototype)
  • Display Status: On the Museum Floor.

Among the most famous aircraft of all time, the Spitfire began operations before Second World War 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 mark. In all, 21 554 were built in 24 different versions, including some 1 220 Seafires fitted for aircraft carrier operation.

The Mk. IX successfully countered the challenge posed by the superb German Focke-Wulf FW 190. The L.F. Mk. IX ’s lower-altitude capabilities were enhanced by an engine designed to give its best power at a lower altitude and, in some cases, by the removal of the wing tips to increase the speed and rate of roll.

Museum Example

  • Registration #: NH188 (RAF)
  • Manufacturer: Supermarine Division, Vickers Armstrong Ltd., Great Britain
  • Manufacture Date: 1944
  • Construction #: CBAF IX 2161
  • Aquisition Date: 1964
  • Provenance: Donation from John Paterson

Built in 1944, the Museum’s L.F. Mk. IX flew with the RAF, as well as with one RCAF and one Polish squadron. After the war it was sold to the Netherlands Army Air Force and sent to the East Indies. After further service with the Belgian Air Force and private owners, it was purchased and brought to Canada in 1961. Flown privately from 1962 to 1964, the aircraft was donated by the owner to the Museum.

Specifications

Wing Span:
9.9 m (32 ft 7 in)
Length:
9.5 m (31 ft 4 in)
Height:
3.8 m (12 ft 7 1/4 in)
Weight, Empty:
2,638 kg (5,816 lb)
Weight, Gross:
3,402 kg (7,500 lb)
Cruising Speed:
Unknown
Max Speed:
650 km/h (404 mph)
Rate of Climb:
1,204 m (3,950 ft) /min
Service Ceiling:
12,954 m (42,500 ft)
Range:
698 km (434 mi)
Power Plant:
one Rolls-Royce Merlin 76, 1,710 hp, V-12 engine (Museum example)