Supermarine Spitfire HF Mk VII MD124
The Spitfire Mk VII, unlike what its designation suggests, did not immediately follow the Mk VI into production. Interestingly, the Mk IX—a stopgap version—reached squadrons before the Mk VII and Mk VIII, despite both of the latter being part of the planned mainstream development of the Spitfire. The Mk IX’s early introduction occurred due to its role as a solution to the threat of the Focke-Wulf Fw 190 and the delays in the development of the Mk VII and Mk VIII.
The Mk VII (Type No. 351) was designed as a high-altitude fighter, carrying forward many design elements from earlier Spitfire variants but with significant enhancements. It shared the extended wingtips of the Mk VI, giving it a larger wingspan but with reduced span ailerons to balance control. The airframe was considerably strengthened, making it more robust than its predecessors, and it was fitted with the Merlin 61 engine and its derivatives, featuring a two-stage supercharger. This new engine required a longer nose, giving the Mk VII a distinct appearance compared to earlier variants.
Another distinguishing feature was the addition of radiators under both wings, which served the cooling needs of the intercooler and oil cooler. This was a change from previous models, where the oil cooler had its own intake. To handle the aircraft’s pressurized cockpit, an intake was installed beneath the exhaust fairings on the starboard side of the nose. The Mk VII also saw aerodynamic improvements such as extended horn balances on the elevators and, in later production models, a larger rudder with a pointed tip to improve stability at high speeds. A further development was the retractable tailwheel, marking the first time this feature was introduced on a Spitfire in operational use.
Internally, the fuel capacity was increased to extend its operational range, and it was equipped with the ‘C’ wing armament, which allowed for a variety of weapons configurations, including two 20mm cannons and four machine guns.
Despite these advancements, the Mk VII didn’t fully meet performance expectations. The lightened Mk IXs, which proved highly capable at high altitudes, overshadowed the Mk VII in operational effectiveness. Some squadrons even removed the Mk VII’s cannons to reduce weight and improve its performance. Nevertheless, the Mk VII found its place in various squadrons, including Nos. 118, 124, 131, 154, 312, 313, 453, 602, and 616, although it was often used in roles similar to standard Spitfire fighters by the time it saw widespread service.
Production of the Mk VII began in August 1942 and continued until early 1944, with only 140 units built. Its performance was considered somewhat disappointing, and by the end of the war, it had largely forsaken its intended high-altitude role, being used more in typical fighter missions. The last squadron to operate the Mk VII was No. 154 Squadron as the war drew to a close.