Spitfire PR Mk XIX RM632 on the ground
Spitfire PR.XIX: The Ultimate Photographic-Reconnaissance Variant
The Spitfire PR.XIX (PR.19 post-war) was the final photographic-reconnaissance (PR) version of the Spitfire and the last to feature the iconic elliptical wing. This variant combined several advanced features to create a highly capable high-speed, high-altitude reconnaissance aircraft.
Design and Features
- Powerplant and Airframe:
- Engine: Initially powered by the Griffon 65 engine, later models used the Griffon 66, which included equipment for operating the pressure cabin blower.
- Fuselage: Shared the Mk.XIV’s fuselage, undercarriage, and tail surfaces, integrating the PR.X’s pressure cabin.
- Wing Design: Incorporated a variation of the ‘bowser’ wing from the PR.IV/X/XI, with leading-edge tanks and additional tanks between the spars in most models.
- Camera and Reconnaissance Equipment:
- Camera Installations: Adapted from the PR.XIII, these were crucial for high-altitude, high-speed reconnaissance missions.
Development and Production
- Initial Models: The first 22 units lacked the pressure cabin and used the Griffon 65 engine. These were delivered starting in May 1944.
- Pressurised Models: Subsequent units featured the pressurised cabin and Griffon 66 engine. The prototype of the pressurised PR.XIX flew in October 1944, with the first production model following in November 1944.
- Production Numbers: A total of 225 PR.XIXs were built, with the final unit delivered in June 1946.
Operational History
- Service Entry and Deployment: The PR.XIX was originally intended as a temporary solution pending the arrival of a PR version of the Supermarine Spiteful. However, delays and issues with the Spiteful led to an extended service life for the PR.XIX.
- Key Operations: The PR.XIX and PR versions of the de Havilland Mosquito were the mainstay of the RAF’s photo-reconnaissance capability until the advent of jet-powered reconnaissance aircraft like the Gloster Meteor and English Electric Canberra.
- End of Service:
- Last Operational Sortie: The final frontline operational sortie by a Spitfire was conducted by a PR.XIX in Malaya in April 1954.
- Meteorological Flight: The PR.XIX continued to serve in a meteorological role until June 1957.
- Post-Service Evaluation: In 1963, a PR.XIX was used in trials against an English Electric Lightning F.3 to develop interception tactics in the event of potential conflicts with Indonesian P-51 Mustangs during the period of Confrontation with Indonesia.
The Spitfire PR.XIX stands as a testament to the versatility and enduring legacy of the Spitfire design, proving to be a valuable asset in reconnaissance missions well into the post-war era.