Battle of Britain aircraft ready for action at Duxford air show

A rare Battle of Britain Spitfire is among five aircraft which will take to the skies for the first time this year at IWM Duxford’s Flying Legends air show.

The privately-owned Spitfire Mk IX, painted in camouflage colours, will be making its flying debut at the show, which is taking place on 11th and 12th July.

This particular aircraft, was originally built as a Mark IX, but was converted to a Mk IXb, and then to a Mk XVIe, before being returned to its original Mk IX specification. The aeroplane served in the Pacific Far East, before being sold to a private owner in the United States.

It was later bought by a British owner and brought to the UK in 2017. It has since undergone a major restoration, including a new paint job and engine.

The aircraft will be joined by four other Battle of Britain aircraft at Duxford, including a Hurricane Mk I, Spitfire Mk IIa, Defiant Mk I and Blenheim Mk IV. These aircraft will be taking part in a special Battle of Britain display, which will recreate the Battle of Britain air battles over Duxford.

The Flying Legends air show is one of the largest and most popular air shows in the UK. It attracts over 100,000 visitors each year and features a wide range of aircraft, from vintage biplanes to modern jet fighters.