The Supermarine Spitfire Mk I first flew in 1936 and the type entered RAF service in 1938.

Wartime development was rapid. Part of the success story was the Rolls-Royce Merlin engine. As this improved, so did the Spitfire. The Mk V was built in greater numbers than any other model and provided Fighter Command's backbone during 1941-1942.

This is the perfect introductory book for the general reader, enthusiast and modeler alike wishing to find a succinct yet detailed introduction to the design and history of the Spitfire. Why was the aircraft conceived? What was it like to fly on a mission? Who were the people who designed it and became famous for flying it? What were its virtues and vices? These and many more questions are answered here, plus a host of illustrations that show variations of color schemes used in different operational theatres and rare photographs taken when the heat was on.

Profiles, photographs and specification details are included.

The Spitfire Mks I-V book is published as part of the popular Combat Legend series.