The Spitfire Mk XIV proved so successful in service, even being able to intercept V1 flying bombs, that an advanced version, the Supermarine Type 394 Spitfire Mk XVIII nicknamed the "Super Spitfire", was purpose built around the Rolls-Royce Griffon engine. A "tear drop" canopy was used with a 2-stage, 2-speed 2035 HP Griffon 65 or 2375 HP Griffon 67 engine coupled to a five-bladed propeller , a strengthened and lengthened fuselage and re-designed "e" wing. The Spitfire Mk XVIII was capable of over 470 mph when powered with the Griffon 67 engine, production started in March 1945, a total of 300 aircraft being produced but entered service with the RAF too late to see action in WW2, the Supermarine Spitfire Mk XVIII pictured above is thought to be the second production aircraft. The RAF operated the Spitfire XVIII in a fighter reconnaissance role until 1951 as the FR.MK.18 at which time they were replaced with Vampire FB.5's. Supermarine Spitfire Mk XVIII (Griffon 65) Specification: Crew: Pilot only Wing Span: 36ft 10in (11.23m) Length: 33ft 3.25in (10.04m) Height: 12ft 7.75in (3.86m) Maximum Weight: 11,000lb (4990kg) Engine: Single 2375hp (1529kw) Rolls Royce Griffon 67 V-12 Maximum Speed: Over 448mph (721 km/h)
Armament: Twin 20mm (0.79mm) cannon Twin 12.7mm (0.50in) machine guns Up-to 227kg (500lb) of bombs or unguided rocket projectiles
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