Beaufighter Mk IF R2198 code PN-B of No 252 Squadron RAF
The R2198 was part of the sixth production batch that was delivered to the RAF Fighter Command. In order to distinguish between aircraft that were utilized by the RAF Fighter or Coastal Commands, Beaufighters were given the suffix F or C, respectively, as each branch had different operational needs. The Mk I variant was powered by 1,400hp Bristol Hercules sleeve valve radial engines, and a total of 915 Mk I “Beaus” were produced at various manufacturing facilities, including Filton, Weston, and Fairey Aviation. The Mk I model was later replaced by the more powerful Mk VI, which featured upgraded engines.