Spitfires Mk IA P9495 DW-K and R6595 DW-O of No. 610 Squadron RAF, Fighters flying in three ‘vic’ formations on 24 July 1940.
The Spitfire made its combat debut on September 6, 1939, in an event known as the “Battle of Barking Creek.” Unfortunately, the debut was far from glorious, as it turned into a disastrous case of friendly fire. Radar reports had indicated potential enemy aircraft moving up the Thames Estuary, prompting the scramble of several fighter squadrons, including No. 74 Squadron. In the confusion, the aircraft misidentified each other, leading to a fatal exchange of fire among RAF planes.
Despite this inauspicious beginning, the Spitfire quickly distinguished itself in the early days of the war. Its first major test against the Luftwaffe’s Bf 109s came during the defense of the Dunkirk evacuation in May-June 1940. Though the RAF suffered losses, the Spitfire, piloted by increasingly skilled and experienced airmen, performed admirably. By this time, the RAF had built up its Spitfire strength to nineteen squadrons, with new squadrons (Nos. 6, 64, 92, 152, 222, 234, 266, and 610) having been equipped with Spitfires since the declaration of war.
Spitfire vs. Hurricane in the Battle of Britain
The Battle of Britain became the defining moment for both the Spitfire and the Hawker Hurricane, though history often elevates the Spitfire to a legendary status over its counterpart. While both aircraft played crucial roles, it was the Spitfire that garnered the most enthusiasm and patriotism from the British public. The rise of “Spitfire Funds” across the country is a testament to this, with civilians donating money and even aluminum from household items to contribute to the production of Spitfires.
In contrast, the Hurricane often flew in the shadow of the Spitfire. Modern analyses of the roles of both aircraft during the Battle of Britain suggest that the kill ratio reflected the proportion of each aircraft type in service. However, the Spitfire was generally considered more survivable in combat due to its performance and agility, particularly in dogfights against the Messerschmitt Bf 109s.
It is important to note that the Hurricane was actually more numerous than the Spitfire during the early stages of the war, including the Battle of Britain. Many of the RAF’s victories were achieved by Hurricanes, which primarily targeted the Luftwaffe’s bombers, while the Spitfires often engaged the German fighters.
“Spitfire Snobbery”
A curious phenomenon that emerged during the Battle of Britain was what some called “Spitfire Snobbery.” This refers to the tendency of Luftwaffe pilots to claim they had been shot down by a Spitfire, even in cases where there were no Spitfires present. This reflected the reputation the Spitfire had developed among both the RAF and their German adversaries, with its sleek design and formidable performance making it a feared opponent in the skies.
While the Hurricane played an equally important role, especially in its bomber-killing capacity, it was the Spitfire that captured the imagination of the British public and became a symbol of British resilience during one of the most critical battles of World War II.