Vickers Supermarine Merlin Seafire
By Kev Darling
In 1941 the Fleet Air Arm was equipped with the Hawker Sea Hurricane and the Fairey Fulmar. While both would give a good account of themselves it was obvious that at some point their opposition would outstrip them in agility and speed. The answer was to navalise the Supermarine Spitfire as an interim before lend lease aircraft became available in quantity from America. Starting with the hooked Spitfire conversions of the Mk V the FAA would eventually receive the fixed wing Mk 1b, various versions of the Mk II and the very capable Mk III. The Mk 1b would quickly be replaced by the folding wing versions which made the type far more flexible, thus all the fleet and escort carriers were able to carry a complement of the speedy fighter. Written by Kev Darling this latest Warpaint covers all versions of this naval fighter and is illustrated in colour by Richard J.Caruana. Unique 1:72nd scale plans are also included as well as lists of user units plus production details.
