Difference between revisions of "Spitfire Mk Ia"

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{{Specs-Card|code=spitfire_mk1}}
 
{{About
 
{{About
 
| about = British fighter '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
 
| about = British fighter '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
−
| usage = other versions
+
| usage = other uses
 
| link = Spitfire (Family)
 
| link = Spitfire (Family)
−
}}
 
−
{{Specs-Card
 
−
|code=spitfire_mk1
 
−
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg|ArtImage_{{PAGENAME}}.png}}
 
 
}}
 
}}
  
 
== Description ==
 
== Description ==
−
<!-- ''In the description, the first part should be about the history of and the creation and combat usage of the aircraft, as well as its key features. In the second part, tell the reader about the aircraft in the game. Insert a screenshot of the vehicle, so that if the novice player does not remember the vehicle by name, he will immediately understand what kind of vehicle the article is talking about.'' -->
+
<!--''In the description, the first part needs to be about the history of and the creation and combat usage of the aircraft, as well as its key features. In the second part, tell the reader about the aircraft in the game. Insert a screenshot of the vehicle. If the novice player does not remember the vehicle by name, he will immediately understand what kind of vehicle it is talking about.''-->
−
The Supermarine Spitfire was one of the most world's most successful aircraft lines, with over 20,000 built across its 24 marks and numerous sub-variants. One of the most famous British WW2-era aircraft, its distinctive thin, elliptical wings allowed it a greater aerodynamic top speed than most of its contemporaries, while its adaptable airframe allowed the basic design to be continually upgraded into the 1950s. The prototype first flew on 5th March 1936 (four months after the maiden flight of the contemporary [[Hurricane Mk I/L|Hawker Hurricane]]), and the plane was quickly ordered into mass production upon demonstration of its capabilities. However, delays in initiating production lines for the aircraft meant that the first production models were only completed by mid-1938. Despite arguably being less important than its Hurricane counterpart, the Spitfire quickly became an icon of the war, particularly with its performance against the Luftwaffe during the Battle of Britain and beyond. While the majority of Spitfires participating in the Battle of Britain were of the Mk I variant, most would be replaced by the [[Spitfire Mk IIa|Mk II]] by the end of 1940.
 
  
−
In the game since the start of the Open Beta Test, the Spitfire Mk Ia is equipped with a Rolls-Royce Merlin III engine, producing 1,030 hp; coupled with its light and sleek design, the Spitfire has excellent climb rate and is relatively fast, but its main strength is the extremely tight turn radius. This allows the pilot to confidently draw any opponent into a turning engagement and emerge victorious (bar the occasional biplane and Japanese fighters, against which the superior speed and energy characteristics of the aircraft can be utilised). However, the key drawback of the Spitfire Mk Ia is the mediocre armament. While the 8 Browning machine guns present great volume of fire, they are rather weak and quite limited by convergence due to their spread-out nature across the wings, and thus may require a long time on target to successfully down an opponent.
+
[[File:GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg|420px|thumb|left]]
 +
{{break}}
 +
The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is a rank {{Specs|rank}} British fighter {{Battle-rating}}. This fighter has been in the game since the start of the Open Beta Test prior to Update 1.29.
  
−
== General info ==
+
The Spitfire Mk Ia is one of the British tree line first monoplane designs, alongside the Hurricanes. The Spitfire is most distinctive with its sleek and thin elliptical wing design, a characteristic seen in most future Spitfire variants. The wing on the Spitfire is a Type A, as implied by the name "Mk I'''a'''", which contained four .303 machine guns per wing with a total of eight machine guns.
−
=== Flight performance ===
 
−
{{Specs-Avia-Flight}}
 
−
<!-- Describe how the aircraft behaves in the air. Speed, manoeuvrability, acceleration and allowable loads - these are the most important characteristics of the vehicle. -->
 
−
The Spitfire Mk Ia has an excellent climb rate and a high top speed of 460 km/h when flying in a straight line. The plane has a decently high wing-rip speed, which should not come into play in controlled dives.
 
  
−
It also possesses a very quick turning ability, although in some situations this can mean that manoeuvring energy retention is worse than one might expect. Roll rate is good at low speeds, but suffers about ~300 km/h.
+
Its default paint coat consists of a green and tan two-tone colouring, with a white undercoat. The Spitfire Mk Ia possess the Royal Air Force Type A.1 roundel on the fuselage with a yellow outer ring, followed by blue, white, and then a red centre. On the wings, the Type B roundels are painted with a simple blue outer ring and a red centre. The red, white, blue fin flap exist on the tail vertical stabilizer.
  
−
In general, the Spitfire performs best at low and medium altitudes: below 4,500 m. Above this altitude, engine power and manoeuvrability suffer.
+
== General info ==
−
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="70%"
+
=== Flight Performance ===
−
! rowspan="2" | Characteristics
+
<!--''Describe how the aircraft behaves in the air. Maximum speed, maneuverability, speed and allowable loads - these are the most important characteristics of the vehicle.''-->
 +
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 +
|-
 +
! colspan="8" | Characteristics
 +
|-
 +
! colspan="8" | ''Stock''
 +
|-
 
! colspan="2" | Max Speed<br>(km/h at 4,267 m)
 
! colspan="2" | Max Speed<br>(km/h at 4,267 m)
−
! rowspan="2" | Max altitude<br>(metres)
+
! rowspan="2" | Max altitude<br>(meters)
 
! colspan="2" | Turn time<br>(seconds)
 
! colspan="2" | Turn time<br>(seconds)
−
! colspan="2" | Rate of climb<br>(metres/second)
+
! colspan="2" | Rate of climb<br>(meters/second)
−
! rowspan="2" | Take-off run<br>(metres)
+
! rowspan="2" |Take-off run<br>(meters)
 +
|-
 +
! AB
 +
! RB
 +
! AB
 +
! RB
 +
! AB
 +
! RB
 +
|-
 +
| 523 || 508 || 10,000 || 16.9 || 17.7 || 7.5 || 10.8 || 300
 
|-
 
|-
−
! AB !! RB !! AB !! RB !! AB !! RB
+
! colspan="8" | ''Upgraded''
 +
|-
 +
! colspan="2" | Max Speed<br>(km/h at 4,267 m)
 +
! rowspan="2" |Max altitude (meters)
 +
! colspan="2" | Turn time (seconds)
 +
! colspan="2" | Rate of climb<br>(meters/second)
 +
! rowspan="2" |Take-off run (meters)
 
|-
 
|-
−
! Stock
+
! AB
−
| 527 || 507 || rowspan="2" | {{Specs|ceiling}} || 16.7 || 17.7 || 10.7 || 10.7 || rowspan="2" | 300
+
! RB
 +
! AB
 +
! RB
 +
! AB
 +
! RB
 
|-
 
|-
−
! Upgraded
+
| 619 || 584 || 10,000 || 14.6 || 15.0 || 30.0 || 19.5 || 300
−
| 617 || 584 || 14.6 || 15.0 || 26.2 || 19.5
 
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
  
−
==== Details ====
+
====Details====
−
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
+
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 
|-
 
|-
 
! colspan="5" | Features
 
! colspan="5" | Features
 
|-
 
|-
−
! Combat flaps !! Take-off flaps !! Landing flaps !! Air brakes !! Arrestor gear
+
! Combat flap
 +
! Take-off flap
 +
! Landing flap
 +
! Air brakes
 +
! Arrestor gear
 
|-
 
|-
−
| X || X || ✓ || X || X    <!-- ✓ -->
+
| ✓ || ✓ || ✓ || X || X    <!-- ✓ -->
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
  
−
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
+
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 
|-
 
|-
−
! colspan="7" | Limits
+
! colspan="5" | Limits
 
|-
 
|-
−
! rowspan="2" | Wings (km/h)
+
! rowspan="2" | Wing-break speed<br>(km/h)
−
! rowspan="2" | Gear (km/h)
+
! rowspan="2" | Gear limit<br>(km/h)
−
! colspan="3" | Flaps (km/h)
+
! rowspan="2" | Combat flap<br> (km/h)
 
! colspan="2" | Max Static G
 
! colspan="2" | Max Static G
 
|-
 
|-
−
! Combat !! Take-off !! Landing !! + !! -
+
! +
 +
! -
 
|-
 
|-
−
| {{Specs|destruction|body}} || {{Specs|destruction|gear}} || N/A || N/A || 230 || ~11 || ~6
+
| 760 || 270 || 290 || ~14 || ~8
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
Line 70: Line 93:
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 
|-
 
|-
−
! colspan="4" | Optimal velocities (km/h)
+
! colspan="4" | Optimal velocities
 
|-
 
|-
−
! Ailerons !! Rudder !! Elevators !! Radiator
+
! Ailerons<br>(km/h)
 +
! Rudder<br>(km/h)
 +
! Elevators<br>(km/h)
 +
! Radiator<br>(km/h)
 
|-
 
|-
−
| < 275 || < 400 || < 350 || > 500
+
| < 321 || < 400 || < 465 || > 250
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
Line 88: Line 114:
 
! WEP Engine power
 
! WEP Engine power
 
|-
 
|-
−
| 4,900 m || 1,020 hp || 1,357 hp
+
| 4,900 m || 1,020 hp || 1,357 hp  
 +
|-
 +
<!--! colspan="3" | Setting 2
 +
|-
 +
! Optimal altitude
 +
! 100% Engine power
 +
! WEP Engine power
 +
|-
 +
| ?,??? m || ?,??? hp || ?,??? hp
 +
|-
 +
! colspan="3" | Setting 3
 
|-
 
|-
 +
! Optimal altitude
 +
! 100% Engine power
 +
! WEP Engine power
 +
|-
 +
| ?,??? m || ?,??? hp || ?,??? hp
 +
|- -->
 
|}
 
|}
  
 
=== Survivability and armour ===
 
=== Survivability and armour ===
−
{{Specs-Avia-Armour}}
+
<!--''Examine the survivability of the aircraft. Note how vulnerable the structure is and how secure the pilot is, whether the fuel tanks are armoured. Describe the armour, if there is any, also mention the vulnerability of other critical aircraft systems.''-->
−
<!-- ''Examine the survivability of the aircraft. Note how vulnerable the structure is and how secure the pilot is, whether the fuel tanks are armoured, etc. Describe the armour, if there is any, and also mention the vulnerability of other critical aircraft systems.'' -->
 
  
−
* 38 mm Bulletproof glass - Armoured windscreen
+
* 38 mm Bulletproof glass - Armored windscreen
−
* 4 mm Steel - Armour plate in pilot's seat
+
* 4 mm Steel - Armor plate in pilot's seat
−
* 6-7 mm Steel -Armour plate behind the pilot
+
* 6-7 mm Steel -Armor plate behind the pilot
−
 
 
−
=== Modifications and economy ===
 
−
{{Specs-Economy}}
 
  
 
== Armaments ==
 
== Armaments ==
−
{{Specs-Avia-Armaments}}
 
 
=== Offensive armament ===
 
=== Offensive armament ===
−
{{Specs-Avia-Offensive}}
+
<!--''Describe the offensive armament of the aircraft, if any. Describe how effective the cannons and machine guns are in a battle, and also what belts or drums are better to use. If there is no offensive weaponry, delete this subsection.''-->
−
<!-- ''Describe the offensive armament of the aircraft, if any. Describe how effective the cannons and machine guns are in a battle, and also what belts or drums are better to use. If there is no offensive weaponry, delete this subsection.'' -->
+
{{main|Browning .303 (7.7 mm)}}
−
{{main|Browning (7.7 mm)}}
 
  
 
The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' is armed with:
 
The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' is armed with:
Line 117: Line 153:
  
 
* 153 rounds per second total output (1150 rpm x 8 / 60).
 
* 153 rounds per second total output (1150 rpm x 8 / 60).
−
* Muzzle velocity 810 m/s (2,660 feet/second). <ref>[http://www.aviation-history.com/guns/303.htm <nowiki>[The Aviation History Online Museum]</nowiki> Browning .303 Mark II Machine Gun]</ref>
+
* Muzzle velocity 2,660 feet/second [810 m/s]. <ref>http://www.aviation-history.com/guns/303.htm</ref>
−
* The .303 was a rifle round, accurate but fairly ineffective in air combat unless in skilled hands. The calibre was chosen over the .50 as it was lighter, had a higher rate of fire and was less susceptible to jamming. However, it required an average 4,500 rounds to disable an enemy aircraft <ref>Flying Guns: World War II by Anthony G Williams, Emmanuel Gustin (2003), p95</ref>, of which 250 rounds needed to hit (i.e. a full 2-second burst). The accurate placing of the shot was essential, as it lacked sufficient energy to cause structural damage.
+
* The .303 was a rifle round, accurate but fairly ineffective in air combat unless in skilled hands. The calibre was chosen over the .50 as it was lighter, had a higher rate of fire and was less susceptible to jamming. However, it required an average 4500 rounds to disable an enemy aircraft <ref>Flying Guns: World War II by Anthony G Williams, Emmanuel Gustin (2003), p95</ref>, of which 250 rounds needed to hit (i.e. a full 2-second burst). The accurate placing of the shot was essential, as it lacked sufficient energy to cause structural damage.
−
* The design used an open bolt mechanism to allow air to flow through the barrel and prevent overheating. This worked well at lower altitudes but caused icing at high altitude. The red canvas wing-port covering kept the gun clean and warm; later marks also ducted hot air from the engine to regulate the gun's breech temperature. <ref>[[wikipedia:Supermarine_Spitfire#Armament|[Wikipedia] Supermarine Spitfire - Armament]]</ref>
+
* The design used an open bolt mechanism to allow air to flow through the barrel and prevent overheating. This worked well at lower altitudes but caused icing at high altitude. The red canvas wing-port covering kept the gun clean and warm; later marks also ducted hot air from the engine to regulate the gun's breech temperature. <ref>https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Supermarine_Spitfire#Armament</ref>
−
* RAF recommended convergence in 1939 was 365 m (400 yards) in contrast to the Luftwaffe, with experience from the Spanish Civil War, using 200 m (which the RAF adopted by mid-1940). Although many high scoring pilots reduced this, close to 137 m (150 yards) or less for an accurate kill, others ignored convergence altogether or went to a box-shot where paired guns were set to different convergences.
+
* RAF recommended convergence in 1939 was 400 yards [365 meters] in contrast to the Luftwaffe, with experience from the Spanish Civil War, using 200 meters (which the RAF adopted by mid-1940). Although many high scoring pilots reduced this, close to 150 yards [137 meters] or less for an accurate kill, others ignored convergence altogether or went to a box-shot where paired guns were set to different convergences.
−
* Choice of ammunition is essential as AP and ball rounds rely on kinetic energy to cause damage, which is lost quickly in small calibre rounds. The API round will also transfer chemical energy into the target and so will be more effective on lightly armoured targets, particularly if they hit something flammable. Pure tracer rounds help to target, especially in combat manoeuvres where lead varies, but have little penetration on contact.
+
* Choice of ammunition is essential as AP and ball rounds rely on kinetic energy to cause damage, which is lost quickly in small calibre rounds. The API round will also transfer chemical energy into the target and so will be more effective on lightly armoured targets, particularly if they hit something flammable. Pure tracer rounds help to target, especially in combat manoeuvres where lead varies, but have little penetration on contact. <ref>http://users.skynet.be/Emmanuel.Gustin/fgun/fgun-fi.html</ref>
 +
<!--=== Suspended armament ===
 +
''Describe the aircraft's suspended armament: additional cannons under the wings, bombs, rockets and torpedoes. This section is especially important for bombers and attackers. If there is no suspended weaponry remove this subsection.''
 +
&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;''Main article:&nbsp;'''[[:Category:Suspended armaments|Bombs]]'''''
 +
 
 +
=== Defensive armament ===
 +
''Defensive armament with turret machine guns or cannons, crewed by gunners. Examine the number of gunners and what belts or drums are better to use. If defensive weaponry is not available remove this subsection.''
 +
-->
  
−
== Usage in battles ==
+
== Usage in the battles ==
−
<!-- ''Describe the tactics of playing in the aircraft, the features of using aircraft in a team and advice on tactics. Refrain from creating a "guide" - do not impose a single point of view, but instead, give the reader food for thought. Examine the most dangerous enemies and give recommendations on fighting them. If necessary, note the specifics of the game in different modes (AB, RB, SB).'' -->
+
<!--''Describe the tactics of playing in an aircraft, the features of using vehicles in a team and advice on tactics. Refrain from creating a "guide" - do not impose a single point of view but give the reader food for thought. Examine the most dangerous enemies and give recommendations on fighting them. If necessary, note the specifics of the game in different modes (AB, RB, SB).''-->
  
 
;Climbing
 
;Climbing
  
−
It is recommended to climb at the start of the match, using the Spitfire Mk Ia's excellent climb rate. This can be done efficiently in two ways depending on the preference of the pilot. If you want to get to high altitudes quickly without having covered much distance you can start off with a 26 degree climb until around 4 km (circa 13,000 ft), after which the nose of the aircraft can be lowered down to a 20 degree climb. If you want to get to a higher altitude at a more moderate tempo and cover more distance, the preference is then to climb steadily the entire way up at 20 degrees. The advantage of the first strategy is that you are going to be the highest altitude fighter in the game. The advantage of the second strategy is that you will be ahead of your bases and at the altitude of enemy bombers so that you can take easy head-on passes at them. In those situations, the bombers can be easy kills (if you fail a head-on against a bomber it is not recommended to turn around and attempt to finish off the bomber as the tail, ventral, dorsal and beam gunners would then have the advantage of you flying into their bullets).
+
The Spitfire should first climb, using its excellent rate-of-climb. This can be done most efficiently in two ways depending on the preference of the pilot. If you want to get high quickly without having covered much distance you can start off with a 26 degrees climb until 4 km (13,123 ft) after which you should lower the nose of the aircraft down to a 20 degrees climb. If you want to get to a higher altitude at a more moderate tempo and cover more distance, the preference is then to climb the entire way at 20 degrees. The advantage of the first way is that you are hands down going to be the highest fighter in the game. The advantage of the second way is that you will be ahead of your bases enough and at the altitude of enemy bombers so that you can take easy head-on passes at bombers which in those situations are free and easy kills (if you fail a head-on against a bomber it is not recommended to turn around and attempt to finish off the bomber as the tail, ventral, dorsal and beam gunners have an advantage of you flying into their bullets). The Spitfire is fast, with a top speed of around 600 kph, although in a straight line it normally only reaches around 460 kph (can be higher if you're using MEC). Engaging head-on with a spitfire is a bad idea unless it's an enemy bomber (which has no forward facing guns). The spitfire is disadvantaged in head-ons due to the lack of armament in the center of the plane which means you will have to rely on your convergence settings and this almost never ends well. In a Spitfire, you should almost always go for turn-fight engagements. It is possible to fake a head-on (by pulling away once your enemy starts firing) if you're forced to by an enemy plane but it is highly recommended to never commit to a head-on engagement. A sensible opponent will try to energy fight you which you need to look out for. You can lose your energy faster than you realize and when you do, you've most likely been baited and are an easy target.
−
 
 
−
;Speed
 
−
 
 
−
The Spitfire is fast, with a top speed of around 600 km/h, although in a straight line it normally only reaches around 460 km/h (which can be higher if you're using MEC). For its BR, the Spitfire Mk Ia's speed is above average overall, being able to reliably outrun aircraft that can outturn it and outturn aircraft that can outrun it. Utilizing its great climb rate, you can dive on faster, heavier aircraft to prevent then from extending away.
 
−
 
 
−
;Engaging Enemy Aircraft
 
−
 
 
−
The Spitfire is disadvantaged in head-ons due to the lack of armament in the center of the plane, which means you will have to rely on your convergence settings. In a Spitfire, it is highly recommended to initiate turnfight-only engagements. It is possible to fake a head-on (by pulling away once your enemy starts firing) if you're forced to do so by an enemy plane, but it is highly recommended to never commit to a head-on engagement with a dedicated monoplane fighter. A skilled opponent will try to energy fight you, which can catch a Spitfire pilot by suprise. You can lose your energy faster than you realize, and when you do, you've most likely been baited and can be an easy target for the enemy.
 
  
−
The Spitfire has a relatively good ammo count. The 4-digit ammo can will most likely not be deceiving, since there are 8 guns on the aircraft, making around 400 rpg. It is recommended to use the guns at around 400 m to have the most devastating effect. If aimed correctly, your enemy is going to have a bad day. The guns can also be used to attack light or unarmoured ground targets, usually with Stealth or Omnipurpose belts, but dedicated gun-platforms with additional suspended armaments like the [[Hurricane Mk I/L]] and [[Hellcat Mk II (Great Britain)|Hellcat]] can perform the job more efficiently than the Spitfire.
+
The Spitfire has a relatively good ammo count. The 4-digit ammo can (most likely will not) be deceiving, since there are 8 guns on the aircraft, making only around 400 RPG. The guns should be used at around 400 meters to have the most devastating effect. If aimed correctly your enemy is going to have a bad day. You can use this to ground attack light or un-armoured targets, usually with stealth or omni-purpose belts, but this job should be left to dedicated gun-platforms, like the Hurricane and [[F6F-5|Hellcat]].
  
−
When in a fight with an enemy plane which is not Japanese, it is recommended to entice them into a turnfight by waiting until they get close enough and then veering into them, forcing a turning fight.
+
When in a fight with an enemy plane which is not Japanese, proceed to entice them into a turn fight. Wait until they get close enough and then turn into them, forcing a turning fight.
  
−
The Spitfire Mk Ia is a plane known for its manoeuvrability. It is faster than Japanese planes, so if attacked by one, a Rolling Scissors technique or straight dash can be used to evade them. If in a good position, Boom & Zoom can be used: repeatedly strafing and then proceeding to either climb high and energy trap it, or extending away maintaining as much energy as possible.
+
The Spitfire Mk Ia is a plane known for its manoeuvrability. It is faster than Japanese planes, so if attacked by one, either use a Rolling Scissors technique or just fly away. If in a good position, Boom & Zoom it.
  
 
====Specific enemies worth noting====
 
====Specific enemies worth noting====
 
<!--Some concerning vehicles to worry about if playing this plane. (i.e. Japanese fighters will out turn you)-->
 
<!--Some concerning vehicles to worry about if playing this plane. (i.e. Japanese fighters will out turn you)-->
  
−
* The [[Bf 109 (Family)|Bf 109 Friedrich (F) series]] are planes players should watch out for. They can do tremendous amounts of damage to a Spitfire if they get on your tail. They also can have very good turning performance, given the pilot flying the 109 knows what he's doing, which could catch you by surprise. The energy performance of the Bf 109 also greatly exceeds the Spitfire's.
+
* The Bf 109 Friedrich (F) series are planes you will want to watch out for. They can do tremendous amounts of damage if you don't watch out. They also have very good turning performance given the pilot flying the 109 knows what he's doing and they could seriously catch you by surprise. The energy performance of this plane also greatly excels your own plane.
−
* [[:Category:Japan aircraft|Japanese aircraft]] - Fighter planes like the [[Ki-43 (Family)|Ki-43]] and [[A6M (Family)|A6M]] will turn all over the Spitfire. As such, the Spitfire's famous turning ability is actually considered wide and sluggish against a Japanese opponent. Instead, the Merlin engine power on the Spitfire can be used to try and outrun the Japanese plane. When attacking a Japanese plane, Boom & Zoom tactics are recommended, rather than turning, to keep an energy advantage over the opponent.
+
* Japanese planes - The Japanese fighter planes like the Ki-43 and A6M will turn all over the Spitfire. As such, do not exploit the Spitfire's turning ability against a Japanese opponent. Instead, use the Merlin engine power on the Spitfire to try and outrun the Japanese plane. When attacking a Japanese plane, try to use Boom & Zoom tactics rather than turning to keep an energy advantage over the opponent.
−
* Biplanes - Biplanes like the [[Ki-10 (Family)|Ki-10]], [[I-15 (Family)|I-15]], and [[CR.32 (Family)|CR.32]] may be slow, but they are among some of the most manoeuvrable aircraft in War Thunder. It is highly recommended not to turn-fight them and to use Boom & Zoom tactics instead. Luckily, most biplanes are fragile and your eight machine guns will tear them apart.
+
* Biplanes - Biplanes may be slow, but they are among some of the most manoeuvrable aircraft in War Thunder. You must not try to turn-fight them. Instead, climb or dive away from them and then use Boom & Zoom tactics. Luckily, biplanes are fragile and your eight machine guns will tear them apart.  
−
* [[:Category:Bombers|Large bombers]] - Although you have eight machine guns, they are only 7.7 mm calibre. With larger aircraft, you may find yourself expending all of your ammunition and not even coming away with a kill. The Spitfire is also quite fragile, so you should be careful of defensive turrets. Even light machine guns can take out your engine, kill your pilot and destroy important combat surfaces.
+
* Heavy Bombers - Although you have eight machine guns, they are only 7.7 mm machine guns. With larger aircraft, you may find yourself expending all of your ammunition and not even coming away with a kill. The Spitfire is also quite fragile. You need to be careful of defensive turrets. Even light machine guns can take out your engine, kill your pilot and destroy combat surfaces.
−
* The [[I-180S]] premium Soviet fighter is extremely manoeuvrable and has great energy retention which can sometimes even out-turn Spitfires at higher speeds, thus it is recommended to be very careful when engaging these planes, making sure you have an energy advantage, or it will be a difficult battle.
+
* The [[I-180S]] premium Russian fighter is extremely manouevrable and has great energy retention which can sometimes even out-turn Spitfires at higher speeds, thus you must be very careful when engaging these planes, making sure you have an energy advantage, or it will be a difficult battle.
  
−
=== Manual Engine Control ===
+
===Manual Engine Control===
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 
|-
 
|-
 
! colspan="7" | MEC elements
 
! colspan="7" | MEC elements
 
|-
 
|-
−
! rowspan="2" | Mixer
+
! rowspan="2" |Mixer
−
! rowspan="2" | Pitch
+
! rowspan="2" |Pitch
−
! colspan="3" | Radiator
+
! colspan="3" |Radiator
−
! rowspan="2" | Supercharger
+
! rowspan="2" |Supercharger
−
! rowspan="2" | Turbocharger
+
! rowspan="2" |Turbocharger
 
|-
 
|-
−
! Oil !! Water !! Type
+
! Oil
 +
! Water
 +
! Type  
 
|-
 
|-
−
| Controllable || Controllable<br>Not auto controlled || Not controllable<br>Not auto controlled || Controllable<br>Not auto controlled || Separate || Not controllable<br>1 gear || Not controllable
+
| Controllable || rowspan="2" | Not controllable || rowspan="2" | Not controllable || rowspan="2" | Not controllable || rowspan="2" | Separate || rowspan="2" | Not ontrollable || rowspan="2" | Not controllable
 +
|-
 +
|}
 +
 
 +
===Modules===
 +
{| class="wikitable"
 +
! colspan="1" | Tier
 +
! colspan="2" | Flight performance
 +
! colspan="1" | Survivability
 +
! colspan="2" | Weaponry
 +
|-
 +
| I
 +
| Fuselage Repair
 +
| Radiator
 +
|
 +
| Offensive 7 mm
 +
|-
 +
| II
 +
|
 +
| Compressor
 +
| Airframe
 +
| New 7 mm MGs
 +
|-
 +
| III
 +
| Wings Repair
 +
| Engine
 +
|
 +
|  
 +
|-
 +
| IV
 +
| 100 Octane Fuel
 +
| Engine Injection
 +
| Cover
 +
|  
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
  
 
=== Pros and cons ===
 
=== Pros and cons ===
−
<!-- ''Summarise and briefly evaluate the vehicle in terms of its characteristics and combat effectiveness. Mark its pros and cons in the bulleted list. Try not to use more than 6 points for each of the characteristics. Avoid using categorical definitions such as "bad", "good" and the like - use substitutions with softer forms such as "inadequate" and "effective".'' -->
+
<!--''Summarize and briefly evaluate the vehicle in terms of its characteristics and combat effectiveness. Mark its pros and cons in the bulleted list. Do not use more than 6 points for each of the characteristics. Avoid using categorical definitions such as "bad", "good" and the like - they have a substitution in the form of softer "inadequate", "effective".''-->
−
[[File:Radar chart Spitfire Mk Ia.png|thumb|Fighter abilities of the Spitfire Mk.Ia]]
 
  
 
'''Pros:'''
 
'''Pros:'''
  
−
* Outstanding turn radius, very good at turnfighting
+
* Good anti-fighter armament of eight machine guns that can shred them apart
−
* Adequate roll rate at low speed
+
* Outstanding turn time, very good at turning fights
−
* Good performance at altitudes below 4.5 km
+
* Good roll rate at low speed
−
* Excellent climb rate
+
* Good performance at low altitude, less than ~4.5 km
−
* Decent armour: frontal 38 mm glass and rear 4-7 mm steel plates
+
* Better-than-average top speed
−
* "100 octane fuel" modification provides roughly 15% increase in engine power
+
* Better-than-average rate of climb
−
* Good anti-fighter armament of eight machine guns
+
* Decent amount of armour, a front 38 mm glass and rear 4-7 mm steel plates
 +
* ''100 octane fuel'' modification provides roughly 15% increase in engine power
  
 
'''Cons:'''
 
'''Cons:'''
  
−
* Poor high-altitude performance
+
* Machine guns only effective if the target is hit in continuous bursts
−
* Roll rate stiffens dramatically at ~300 km/h
+
* Machine gun armament lacks the long-range hitting power of cannons
−
* Below average energy retention: momentum is lost after pulling a few sharp turns
+
* Ammo can run out quickly in prolonged, uncontrolled bursts
−
* Fragile construction: damage to the airframe, control surfaces, or engine can cripple the plane
+
* Wing-mounted armament takes wing convergence into consideration
−
* Negative Gs and inverted flight causes the Float Carburettor to fail, momentarily cutting the engine
+
* Quick kills against large bombers without a pilot snipe is difficult, prolonged engagements expose the Spitfire to the defensive gunners
−
* Engine prone to overheating
+
* Bad high altitude performance
−
* Machine guns are effective only if the target is hit repeatedly at close ranges
+
* Roll rate stiffens dramatically at ~300 kph
−
* No suspended armaments or heavy guns for ground attack
+
* Not the best diver, wings tend to rip (RB/SB)
−
* Pulling back hard on the joystick can cause dangerous flat-spins in Simulator mode
+
* Less-than-average energy retention
−
* Poor simulator cockpit visibility
+
* Fragile construction, damage to the airframe, control surfaces, or engine can cripple the plane
 +
* Pulling Negative G's (realistic/simulator only) can cause the carburetor float to fail, turning the engine off temporarily!
 +
* Prone to overheating
  
 
== History ==
 
== History ==
−
<!-- ''Describe the history of the creation and combat usage of the aircraft in more detail than in the introduction. If the historical reference turns out to be too long, take it to a separate article, taking a link to the article about the vehicle and adding a block "/History" (example: <nowiki>https://wiki.warthunder.com/(Vehicle-name)/History</nowiki>) and add a link to it here using the <code>main</code> template. Be sure to reference text and sources by using <code><nowiki><ref></ref></nowiki></code>, as well as adding them at the end of the article with <code><nowiki><references /></nowiki></code>. This section may also include the vehicle's dev blog entry (if applicable) and the in-game encyclopedia description (under <code><nowiki>=== In-game description ===</nowiki></code>, also if applicable).'' -->
+
<!--''Describe the history of the creation and combat usage of the aircraft in more detail than in the introduction. If the historical reference turns out to be too big, take it to a separate article, taking a link to an article about the vehicle and adding a block "/ historical reference" (example: https://wiki.warthunder.com/Name-vehicles/historical reference) and add a link to it here using the <code>main</code> template. Be sure to include links to sources at the end of the article.''-->
  
−
{{break}}
+
=== In-game description ===
−
{{Navigation-Start|{{Annotation|Archive of the in-game description|An archive of the historical description of the vehicle that was presented in-game prior to Update 1.55 'Royal Armour'}}|expand=true}}
+
"Despite the British Air Ministry’s preference for biplane fighters in the early 1930s, Supermarine designer RJ Mitchell began work on an all-metal construction, single-engine, single-seat monoplane fighter with an enclosed cockpit and retractable landing gear. The Spitfire (Prototype K5054) made its first flight on March 5th 1936, and after demonstrating superb handling qualities, was ordered into mass production for the RAF. The first Spitfires entered service with No.19 Squadron at RAF Duxford in August 1938.
−
{{Navigation-First-Simple-Line}}
 
−
Despite the British Air Ministry's preference for biplane fighters in the early 1930s, Supermarine designer RJ Mitchell began work on an all-metal construction, single-engine, single-seat monoplane fighter with an enclosed cockpit and retractable landing gear. The Spitfire (Prototype K5054) made its first flight on March 5th 1936, and after demonstrating superb handling qualities, was ordered into mass production for the RAF. The first Spitfires entered service with No.19 Squadron at RAF Duxford in August 1938.
 
  
−
Initially, the Mk I variant was equipped with type A wings and four wing-mounted Colt-Browning Mk II .303 (7.7 mm) machine guns, although this was soon increased to eight. Further upgrades included the use of a Rolls-Royce Merlin III engine instead of the original 1,030 HP Merlin II; the original two blade fixed pitch wooden propeller was also replaced with a metal, variable pitch three bladed propeller of either Rotol or De Havilland design. A bulged canopy, bullet proof windscreen, armour plating and hydraulics to operate the gear and flaps were also introduced, partly as a result of the combat experience gained by Hurricane squadrons during the Battle of France.
+
Initially, the Mk I variant was equipped with type A wings and four wing-mounted Colt-Browning Mk II .303 (7.7mm) machine guns, although this was soon increased to eight. Further upgrades included the use of a Rolls-Royce Merlin III engine instead of the original 1030 HP Merlin II; the original two blade fixed pitch wooden propeller was also replaced with a metal, variable pitch three bladed propeller of either Rotol or De Havilland design. A bulged canopy, bullet proof windscreen, armor plating and hydraulics to operate the gear and flaps were also introduced, partly as a result of the combat experience gained by Hurricane squadrons during the Battle of France.
  
 
The first Spitfires had a basic targeting system consisting of a ringed sight, but by July of 1939 a more sophisticated collimator sight, the GM2 Mk II, began to be used; machines already in service were retrofitted with the new sights.
 
The first Spitfires had a basic targeting system consisting of a ringed sight, but by July of 1939 a more sophisticated collimator sight, the GM2 Mk II, began to be used; machines already in service were retrofitted with the new sights.
  
−
In 1940, 30 aircraft were delivered to front line service for Operational Trials with the new Type B wing; the Spitfire Mk IB was armed with two 20 mm Hispano cannon and four 0.303 Browning machine guns, and the older eight gun fighters were re-designated the Mk IA. However, the drum feed for the 20 mm cannon proved to be very unreliable and prone to jamming, so the Mk IB was withdrawn from service.
+
In 1940, 30 aircraft were delivered to front line service for Operational Trials with the new Type B wing; the Spitfire Mk IB was armed with two 20mm Hispano cannon and four 0.303 Browning machine guns, and the older eight gun fighters were re-designated the Mk IA. However, the drum feed for the 20mm cannon proved to be very unreliable and prone to jamming, so the Mk IB was withdrawn from service.
  
−
At the time of its introduction, right through the Battle of Britain in the summer of 1940, the Spitfire Mk I was considered by many to be the greatest fighter aircraft in the world. By the time the Spitfire Mk II began to replace it, 1,566 Mk Is had been built.
+
At the time of its introduction, right through the Battle of Britain in the summer of 1940, the Spitfire Mk I was considered by many to be the greatest fighter aircraft in the world. By the time the Spitfire Mk II began to replace it, 1566 Mk Is had been built."
−
{{Navigation-End}}
 
  
 
=== Aces ===
 
=== Aces ===
−
The Spitfire Mk.1A was the iconic British aircraft of the Battle of Britain. Leading Spitfire aces of this battle were: <ref>[[wikipedia:The_Few|[Wikipedia] The Few]]</ref>
+
The Spitfire Mk.1A was the iconic British aircraft of the Battle of Britain. Leading Spitfire aces of this battle were: <ref>https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Few</ref>
 
{| class="wikitable"
 
{| class="wikitable"
 
|-
 
|-
Line 230: Line 299:
 
| Flight Lieutenant Paterson Hughes || Australia || 234
 
| Flight Lieutenant Paterson Hughes || Australia || 234
 
|}
 
|}
−
 
−
=== Notable pilots ===
 
−
 
−
<div><ul>
 
−
<li style="display: inline-block;"> [[File:Douglas_Bader_profile.jpg|thumb|none|220px|User:U64962917#Bader,_Douglas_R.S.B.|The '''{{PAGENAME}}''' was the first Spitfire in which [[User:U64962917#Bader,_Douglas_R.S.B.|Douglas Bader]] flew. As it was he crashed the first one during take off, however immediately jumped into another and took to the air.]] </li>
 
−
</ul></div>
 
  
 
== Media ==
 
== Media ==
−
<!-- ''Excellent additions to the article would be video guides, screenshots from the game, and photos.'' -->
+
''An excellent addition to the article will be video guides, as well as screenshots from the game and photos.''
  
−
;Skins
+
== Read also ==
−
 
+
''Links to the articles on the War Thunder Wiki that you think will be useful for the reader, for example,''
−
* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=spitfire_mk1 Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]
 
−
 
 
−
;Videos
 
−
{{Youtube-gallery|9_txEPailKc|'''The Shooting Range #92''' - ''Metal Beasts'' section at 01:54 discusses the Spitfire Mk Ia.}}
 
−
 
 
−
== See also ==
 
−
''Links to the articles on the War Thunder Wiki that you think will be useful for the reader, for example:''
 
  
 
* ''reference to the series of the aircraft;''
 
* ''reference to the series of the aircraft;''
 
* ''links to approximate analogues of other nations and research trees.''
 
* ''links to approximate analogues of other nations and research trees.''
 +
<!--''ETC.''-->
 +
 +
== Sources ==
 +
''Paste links to sources and external resources, such as:''
  
−
== External links ==
 
−
<!-- ''Paste links to sources and external resources, such as:''
 
 
* ''topic on the official game forum;''
 
* ''topic on the official game forum;''
−
* ''other literature.'' -->
+
* ''page on aircraft encyclopedia;''
−
 
+
* ''other literature.''
−
* [https://forum.warthunder.com/index.php?/topic/275318-supermarine-spitfire-mk-ia/ Official data sheet - more details about the performance]
 
  
−
=== References ===
+
==References==
 
<references />
 
<references />
  
−
{{AirManufacturer Supermarine}}
 
 
{{Britain fighters}}
 
{{Britain fighters}}

Revision as of 18:19, 10 November 2019

Rank IV USSR | Premium | Golden Eagles
Tu-1 Pack
Spitfire Mk Ia
spitfire_mk1.png
Spitfire Mk Ia
Britain flag.png Britain
II Rank
Battle rating:
AB RB SB
2.7 3.0 2.3
Class:
Research:7 900 Specs-Card-Exp.png
Purchase:10 000 Specs-Card-Lion.png
Show in game
This page is about the British fighter Spitfire Mk Ia. For other uses, see Spitfire (Family).

Description

GarageImage Spitfire Mk Ia.jpg


The Spitfire Mk Ia is a rank II British fighter with a battle rating of 2.7 (AB), 3.0 (RB), and 2.3 (SB). This fighter has been in the game since the start of the Open Beta Test prior to Update 1.29.

The Spitfire Mk Ia is one of the British tree line first monoplane designs, alongside the Hurricanes. The Spitfire is most distinctive with its sleek and thin elliptical wing design, a characteristic seen in most future Spitfire variants. The wing on the Spitfire is a Type A, as implied by the name "Mk Ia", which contained four .303 machine guns per wing with a total of eight machine guns.

Its default paint coat consists of a green and tan two-tone colouring, with a white undercoat. The Spitfire Mk Ia possess the Royal Air Force Type A.1 roundel on the fuselage with a yellow outer ring, followed by blue, white, and then a red centre. On the wings, the Type B roundels are painted with a simple blue outer ring and a red centre. The red, white, blue fin flap exist on the tail vertical stabilizer.

General info

Flight Performance

Characteristics
Stock
Max Speed
(km/h at 4,267 m) 		Max altitude
(meters) 		Turn time
(seconds) 		Rate of climb
(meters/second) 		Take-off run
(meters)
AB RB AB RB AB RB
523 508 10,000 16.9 17.7 7.5 10.8 300
Upgraded
Max Speed
(km/h at 4,267 m) 		Max altitude (meters) Turn time (seconds) Rate of climb
(meters/second) 		Take-off run (meters)
AB RB AB RB AB RB
619 584 10,000 14.6 15.0 30.0 19.5 300

Details

Features
Combat flap Take-off flap Landing flap Air brakes Arrestor gear
✓ ✓ ✓ X X
Limits
Wing-break speed
(km/h) 		Gear limit
(km/h) 		Combat flap
(km/h) 		Max Static G
+ -
760 270 290 ~14 ~8
Optimal velocities
Ailerons
(km/h) 		Rudder
(km/h) 		Elevators
(km/h) 		Radiator
(km/h)
< 321 < 400 < 465 > 250
Compressor (RB/SB)
Setting 1
Optimal altitude 100% Engine power WEP Engine power
4,900 m 1,020 hp 1,357 hp

Survivability and armour

  • 38 mm Bulletproof glass - Armored windscreen
  • 4 mm Steel - Armor plate in pilot's seat
  • 6-7 mm Steel -Armor plate behind the pilot

Armaments

Offensive armament

Main article: Browning .303 (7.7 mm)

The Spitfire Mk Ia is armed with:

  • 8 x 7.7 mm Browning machine guns, wing-mounted (350 rpg = 2,800 total)

Notes:

  • 153 rounds per second total output (1150 rpm x 8 / 60).
  • Muzzle velocity 2,660 feet/second [810 m/s]. [1]
  • The .303 was a rifle round, accurate but fairly ineffective in air combat unless in skilled hands. The calibre was chosen over the .50 as it was lighter, had a higher rate of fire and was less susceptible to jamming. However, it required an average 4500 rounds to disable an enemy aircraft [2], of which 250 rounds needed to hit (i.e. a full 2-second burst). The accurate placing of the shot was essential, as it lacked sufficient energy to cause structural damage.
  • The design used an open bolt mechanism to allow air to flow through the barrel and prevent overheating. This worked well at lower altitudes but caused icing at high altitude. The red canvas wing-port covering kept the gun clean and warm; later marks also ducted hot air from the engine to regulate the gun's breech temperature. [3]
  • RAF recommended convergence in 1939 was 400 yards [365 meters] in contrast to the Luftwaffe, with experience from the Spanish Civil War, using 200 meters (which the RAF adopted by mid-1940). Although many high scoring pilots reduced this, close to 150 yards [137 meters] or less for an accurate kill, others ignored convergence altogether or went to a box-shot where paired guns were set to different convergences.
  • Choice of ammunition is essential as AP and ball rounds rely on kinetic energy to cause damage, which is lost quickly in small calibre rounds. The API round will also transfer chemical energy into the target and so will be more effective on lightly armoured targets, particularly if they hit something flammable. Pure tracer rounds help to target, especially in combat manoeuvres where lead varies, but have little penetration on contact. [4]

Usage in the battles

Climbing

The Spitfire should first climb, using its excellent rate-of-climb. This can be done most efficiently in two ways depending on the preference of the pilot. If you want to get high quickly without having covered much distance you can start off with a 26 degrees climb until 4 km (13,123 ft) after which you should lower the nose of the aircraft down to a 20 degrees climb. If you want to get to a higher altitude at a more moderate tempo and cover more distance, the preference is then to climb the entire way at 20 degrees. The advantage of the first way is that you are hands down going to be the highest fighter in the game. The advantage of the second way is that you will be ahead of your bases enough and at the altitude of enemy bombers so that you can take easy head-on passes at bombers which in those situations are free and easy kills (if you fail a head-on against a bomber it is not recommended to turn around and attempt to finish off the bomber as the tail, ventral, dorsal and beam gunners have an advantage of you flying into their bullets). The Spitfire is fast, with a top speed of around 600 kph, although in a straight line it normally only reaches around 460 kph (can be higher if you're using MEC). Engaging head-on with a spitfire is a bad idea unless it's an enemy bomber (which has no forward facing guns). The spitfire is disadvantaged in head-ons due to the lack of armament in the center of the plane which means you will have to rely on your convergence settings and this almost never ends well. In a Spitfire, you should almost always go for turn-fight engagements. It is possible to fake a head-on (by pulling away once your enemy starts firing) if you're forced to by an enemy plane but it is highly recommended to never commit to a head-on engagement. A sensible opponent will try to energy fight you which you need to look out for. You can lose your energy faster than you realize and when you do, you've most likely been baited and are an easy target.

The Spitfire has a relatively good ammo count. The 4-digit ammo can (most likely will not) be deceiving, since there are 8 guns on the aircraft, making only around 400 RPG. The guns should be used at around 400 meters to have the most devastating effect. If aimed correctly your enemy is going to have a bad day. You can use this to ground attack light or un-armoured targets, usually with stealth or omni-purpose belts, but this job should be left to dedicated gun-platforms, like the Hurricane and Hellcat.

When in a fight with an enemy plane which is not Japanese, proceed to entice them into a turn fight. Wait until they get close enough and then turn into them, forcing a turning fight.

The Spitfire Mk Ia is a plane known for its manoeuvrability. It is faster than Japanese planes, so if attacked by one, either use a Rolling Scissors technique or just fly away. If in a good position, Boom & Zoom it.

Specific enemies worth noting

  • The Bf 109 Friedrich (F) series are planes you will want to watch out for. They can do tremendous amounts of damage if you don't watch out. They also have very good turning performance given the pilot flying the 109 knows what he's doing and they could seriously catch you by surprise. The energy performance of this plane also greatly excels your own plane.
  • Japanese planes - The Japanese fighter planes like the Ki-43 and A6M will turn all over the Spitfire. As such, do not exploit the Spitfire's turning ability against a Japanese opponent. Instead, use the Merlin engine power on the Spitfire to try and outrun the Japanese plane. When attacking a Japanese plane, try to use Boom & Zoom tactics rather than turning to keep an energy advantage over the opponent.
  • Biplanes - Biplanes may be slow, but they are among some of the most manoeuvrable aircraft in War Thunder. You must not try to turn-fight them. Instead, climb or dive away from them and then use Boom & Zoom tactics. Luckily, biplanes are fragile and your eight machine guns will tear them apart.
  • Heavy Bombers - Although you have eight machine guns, they are only 7.7 mm machine guns. With larger aircraft, you may find yourself expending all of your ammunition and not even coming away with a kill. The Spitfire is also quite fragile. You need to be careful of defensive turrets. Even light machine guns can take out your engine, kill your pilot and destroy combat surfaces.
  • The I-180S premium Russian fighter is extremely manouevrable and has great energy retention which can sometimes even out-turn Spitfires at higher speeds, thus you must be very careful when engaging these planes, making sure you have an energy advantage, or it will be a difficult battle.

Manual Engine Control

MEC elements
Mixer Pitch Radiator Supercharger Turbocharger
Oil Water Type
Controllable Not controllable Not controllable Not controllable Separate Not ontrollable Not controllable

Modules

Tier Flight performance Survivability Weaponry
I Fuselage Repair Radiator Offensive 7 mm
II Compressor Airframe New 7 mm MGs
III Wings Repair Engine
IV 100 Octane Fuel Engine Injection Cover

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Good anti-fighter armament of eight machine guns that can shred them apart
  • Outstanding turn time, very good at turning fights
  • Good roll rate at low speed
  • Good performance at low altitude, less than ~4.5 km
  • Better-than-average top speed
  • Better-than-average rate of climb
  • Decent amount of armour, a front 38 mm glass and rear 4-7 mm steel plates
  • 100 octane fuel modification provides roughly 15% increase in engine power

Cons:

  • Machine guns only effective if the target is hit in continuous bursts
  • Machine gun armament lacks the long-range hitting power of cannons
  • Ammo can run out quickly in prolonged, uncontrolled bursts
  • Wing-mounted armament takes wing convergence into consideration
  • Quick kills against large bombers without a pilot snipe is difficult, prolonged engagements expose the Spitfire to the defensive gunners
  • Bad high altitude performance
  • Roll rate stiffens dramatically at ~300 kph
  • Not the best diver, wings tend to rip (RB/SB)
  • Less-than-average energy retention
  • Fragile construction, damage to the airframe, control surfaces, or engine can cripple the plane
  • Pulling Negative G's (realistic/simulator only) can cause the carburetor float to fail, turning the engine off temporarily!
  • Prone to overheating

History

In-game description

"Despite the British Air Ministry’s preference for biplane fighters in the early 1930s, Supermarine designer RJ Mitchell began work on an all-metal construction, single-engine, single-seat monoplane fighter with an enclosed cockpit and retractable landing gear. The Spitfire (Prototype K5054) made its first flight on March 5th 1936, and after demonstrating superb handling qualities, was ordered into mass production for the RAF. The first Spitfires entered service with No.19 Squadron at RAF Duxford in August 1938.

Initially, the Mk I variant was equipped with type A wings and four wing-mounted Colt-Browning Mk II .303 (7.7mm) machine guns, although this was soon increased to eight. Further upgrades included the use of a Rolls-Royce Merlin III engine instead of the original 1030 HP Merlin II; the original two blade fixed pitch wooden propeller was also replaced with a metal, variable pitch three bladed propeller of either Rotol or De Havilland design. A bulged canopy, bullet proof windscreen, armor plating and hydraulics to operate the gear and flaps were also introduced, partly as a result of the combat experience gained by Hurricane squadrons during the Battle of France.

The first Spitfires had a basic targeting system consisting of a ringed sight, but by July of 1939 a more sophisticated collimator sight, the GM2 Mk II, began to be used; machines already in service were retrofitted with the new sights.

In 1940, 30 aircraft were delivered to front line service for Operational Trials with the new Type B wing; the Spitfire Mk IB was armed with two 20mm Hispano cannon and four 0.303 Browning machine guns, and the older eight gun fighters were re-designated the Mk IA. However, the drum feed for the 20mm cannon proved to be very unreliable and prone to jamming, so the Mk IB was withdrawn from service.

At the time of its introduction, right through the Battle of Britain in the summer of 1940, the Spitfire Mk I was considered by many to be the greatest fighter aircraft in the world. By the time the Spitfire Mk II began to replace it, 1566 Mk Is had been built."

Aces

The Spitfire Mk.1A was the iconic British aircraft of the Battle of Britain. Leading Spitfire aces of this battle were: [5]

Name Nationality Squadron
Pilot Officer Eric Lock British 41
Flying Officer Brian Carbury New Zealand 603
Pilot Officer Colin Gray New Zealand 54
Pilot Officer Bob Doe British 234
Flight Lieutenant Paterson Hughes Australia 234

Media

An excellent addition to the article will be video guides, as well as screenshots from the game and photos.

Read also

Links to the articles on the War Thunder Wiki that you think will be useful for the reader, for example,

  • reference to the series of the aircraft;
  • links to approximate analogues of other nations and research trees.

Sources

Paste links to sources and external resources, such as:

  • topic on the official game forum;
  • page on aircraft encyclopedia;
  • other literature.

References

  1. ↑ http://www.aviation-history.com/guns/303.htm
  2. ↑ Flying Guns: World War II by Anthony G Williams, Emmanuel Gustin (2003), p95
  3. ↑ https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Supermarine_Spitfire#Armament
  4. ↑ http://users.skynet.be/Emmanuel.Gustin/fgun/fgun-fi.html
  5. ↑ https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Few


Britain fighters
Fury  Fury Mk I · Fury Mk II
Nimrod  Nimrod Mk I · Nimrod Mk II
Gladiator  Gladiator Mk II · Tuck's Gladiator Mk II · Gladiator Mk IIF · Gladiator Mk IIS
Sea Gladiator  Sea Gladiator Mk I
Hurricane  Hurricane Mk I/L · Hurricane Mk.I/L FAA M · Hurricane Mk IIB/Trop
Sea Hurricane  Sea Hurricane Mk IB · Sea Hurricane Mk IC
Martin-Baker  MB.5
Spitfire (early-Merlin)  Spitfire Mk Ia · Spitfire Mk IIa · Spitfire Mk.IIa Venture I · Spitfire Mk IIb · Spitfire Mk Vb/trop · Spitfire Mk Vb · Spitfire Mk Vc/trop · Spitfire Mk Vc
Spitfire (late-Merlin)  Spitfire F Mk IX · Spitfire LF Mk IX · Spitfire F Mk IXc · Plagis' Spitfire LF Mk IXc · Spitfire F Mk XVI
Spitfire (Griffon)  Spitfire F Mk XIVc · Spitfire F Mk XIVe · Prendergast's Spitfire FR Mk XIVe · Spitfire F Mk XVIIIe · Spitfire F Mk 22 · Spitfire F Mk 24
Seafire  Seafire LF Mk.III · Seafire F Mk XVII · Seafire FR 47
Typhoon  Typhoon Mk Ia · Typhoon Mk Ib · Typhoon Mk Ib/L
Tempest  Tempest Mk II · Tempest Mk V
Sea Fury  Sea Fury FB 11
Twin-engine fighters  Hornet Mk.I · Hornet Mk.III · Whirlwind Mk I · Whirlwind P.9
  Foreign:
Australia  ▄Boomerang Mk I · ▄Boomerang Mk II
France  ▄D.520 · ▄D.521
USA  ▄Martlet Mk IV · ▄Corsair F Mk II · ▄Hellcat Mk II · ▄Thunderbolt Mk.1 · ▄Mustang Mk IA

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