Documentary on the legendary aircraft the spitfire from its first entry into the raf in 1938. Featuring original archive footage of the aircraft plus interviews with veteran and current spitfire pilots, wwii ground crew members and original test pilot, the late alan henshaw. The supermarine spitfire is the most recognisable fighter aircraft from the second world war. Its speed, agility and firepower, combined with the skill and bravery of the pilots who flew it, made the aircraft a true flying legend. The spitfire had its roots in a series of high performance racing aircraft designed by r j mitchell at supermarine in the 1930s, which proved to be considerably faster than the frontline fighters of the day. Quick to spot its potential, supermarine privately developed the type 300 fighter prototype and the air ministry were suitably impressed, placing an initial order for 310 aircraft. It first went into raf service in august 1938 – and the rest is history. Along with the hurricane, it proved a formidable fighter during the battle of britain and continued to see service in varying marks throughout the war in almost every theatre. Great aircraft of the raf – the spitfire is a superb film tribute to this truly historic fighter, combing original archive film with especially shot material of spitfires on display today. It includes stunning air to air film, formation and solo aerobatic performances and even cockpit camera footage to put you in the pilot’s seat. Running time 60 minutes region region 2 this dvd may not be viewable outside europe. Read more about dvd formats. Release date 1 jan. 2010