By Kev Darling
In 1941 the Fleet Air Arm was equipped with the Hawker Sea Hurricane and the Fairey Fulmar. While both would give a good account of themselves it was obvious that at some point their opposition would outstrip them in agility and speed.
The answer was to navalise the Supermarine Spitfire as an interim before lend lease aircraft became available in quantity from America. Starting with the hooked Spitfire conversions of the Mk V the FAA would eventually receive the fixed wing Mk 1b, various versions of the Mk II and the very capable Mk III.
The Mk 1b would quickly be replaced by the folding wing versions which made the type far more flexible, thus all the fleet and escort carriers were able to carry a complement of the speedy fighter.
The Seafire did have some faults, the first was a lack of endurance which was cured by adding external fuel tanks, while the tendency to ping the deck on touch down was cured by better training and the ability to trim the blades should such an event occur. During its service the Merlin powered Seafire served in all theatres of war and would provide vital air cover over the fleet during operations. At wars end the Merlin powered machines would be quickly retired although some newer build aircraft would see service with Aeronavale and the Irish Air Corps.

Written by Kev Darling this latest Warpaint covers all versions of this naval fighter and is illustrated in colour by Richard J.Caruana. Unique 1:72nd scale plans are also included as well as lists of user units plus production details.