Supermarine Spitfire PR Mk I of No. 1 Photographic Reconnaissance Unit RAF
Photo-reconnaissance (PR) operations for the Spitfire began with converted fighters, but these aircraft were finished in a special color known as ‘Camotint.’ Fighter Command directed that the PRU (Photo Reconnaissance Unit) aircraft were to be “colored in accordance with operational requirements.” Sydney Cotton, who was instrumental in the development of PR Spitfires, preferred them to be painted in ‘Duck Egg Blue.’ Early photos of Spitfire N3071 suggest this preference was realized.
Over time, further color development by both the PRU and the Royal Aircraft Establishment (RAE) led to the creation of PR Blue, a color specifically designed for PR operations. Many earlier PR Spitfire models were painted in a combination of colors, including Medium Sea Grey over PR Blue, or Deep Sky.
During the Allied invasion in 1944, some low-altitude PR Spitfires were painted in an unusual light pink color, which provided effective camouflage for low-level flights in certain conditions. Later, PR Spitfires adopted an overall PR Blue scheme, which became the standard for high-altitude reconnaissance missions.
Aircraft painted in PR Blue typically featured 30-inch Type B roundels on the fuselage and 40-inch roundels on the upper wings. Code letters were applied in light grey, 24 inches high, while a fin flash measuring just 12 inches square, with equal segments of red, white, and blue (4 inches), adorned the vertical stabilizer. The serial numbers were usually displayed in 4-inch high characters in white or light grey aft of the fuselage codes.
This distinct color scheme became standard for PR Spitfires throughout their service, even being applied to the later models powered by Griffon engines. The combination of these carefully chosen colors and markings helped to optimize the performance and stealth of PR Spitfires in their specialized reconnaissance role.