Spitfire Trivia - Prototype and Mk 1

[ozzy72]

Not the V She didn't carry rockets!

[Felix/FFDS]

Not the V She didn't carry rockets!

I'm assuming the object of the question is:

Spitfire+bombs+rockets+extended fuel+feathering prop+towed

I'd narrow it down to either the 24, or, Seafire 47...??

[Woodlouse2002]

Ok, here's my second attempt. Spitfire MkXXI.

[paulb]

Hi Ozzy

Was I 'warm' or 'cold' with either of my last two emails?

Cheers Paul

[paulb]

I cant wait...............

So, assuming my Malta reference was correct, I will guess at a MkIX as I am sure that I have seen one with rockets and tanks......

Cheers Paul

[ozzy72]

Well done Paul

No. 74 Sqn operated IXEs with rockets (they were the only Sqn. to do so), although MN477 did test the American M10 three tube cluster rockets, but they didn't get used in action by British forces.

A number of different extra fuel tanks were fitted to the IX including;
internal 75 gal. (in the rear of the cockpit)
45 gal. slipper tank
16.5 gal. wing tanks

BF274 was fitted with a Y-shaped bridle to enable her to be towed behind a Wellington, she was given a fully-featherable prop (the only one to have one) as the engine had to be kept idling or else it gummed up with oil.

Ozzy

Ps. Five IXs were the first Spits to be fitted with contra-rotating props as well Fabulous plane

[paulb]

Yeeeeeeeeeessssss!  

Thanks Ozzy  ;)

Cheers Paul

[Hagar]

Righto. My turn. While hunting through all my reference books for details on Ozzy's question (I wouldn't have cheated) I came across at least one instance of a Spitfire being used to tow another aircraft. Would anyone care to offer suggestions of the type of aircraft & the circumstances?

Answers as usual on a $10 bill to me.
I don't expect to become a millionaire overnight as the experts around here most likely know a lot more about this than me.

[Wing Nut]

They were used to tow all kinds of target drones in the early 50's...

[Hagar]

No these were actual aircraft.

[C]

My gut feeling was the Hotspur Glider, and a quick peek on google seemed back this up, with trials at Biggin in 1943/44

Mk Vb JK940 apparently...

Charlie

[paulb]

Or maybe an F.Va?  

(Service mod; Merlin 45; armament removed)

Cheers Paul

[Hagar]

The Hotspur is most likely correct but not the answer I was looking for. I don't know the type of Spitfire involved as the article doesn't elaborate. Further information is welcome.

[HawkerTempest5]

My guess was Hotspur glider. Good one Hagar, I'll have to put some work in on this one.

[C]

If its not the hotspur I'm stumped, and I have got my jane's with me...

Any chance you're thinking of the Me163 Komet?

Charlie