Supermarine Seafire

The Supermarine Seafire was the naval adaptation of the famous Supermarine Spitfire, produced by the British aircraft manufacturer Supermarine during World War II. First flying in 1940, the Seafire entered service with the Royal Navy’s Fleet Air Arm in 1942, providing carrier‑based fighters capable of escorting convoys, striking enemy ships, and defending against air attacks. Modifications included a strengthened undercarriage, arrestor hook, and folding wings to fit aboard aircraft carriers, while later models received more powerful Merlin engines, larger wing panels, and increased fuel capacity for extended range. Notable variants such as the Seafire Mk III and Mk XV combined the agility of the Spitfire with naval equipment, achieving top speeds of around 360 mph and a service ceiling exceeding 30,000 feet. Though early versions suffered from limited carrier suitability and short deck runs, the type proved vital during the Mediterranean, Atlantic and Pacific campaigns, participating in operations like the invasion of Sicily and the Battle of Okinawa. The Seafire’s blend of exceptional maneuverability and the ability to operate from warships marked a significant evolution in naval aviation, influencing post‑war carrier fighter designs and cementing Supermarine’s legacy in aviation history.

Supermarine

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