Supermarine were engaged in developing a new laminar flow wing for the
Spitfire where the thickest part of the wing would be much further from the
leading edge than in the original. The design of this new fighter was
undertaken against specification F.1/43.
The new aircraft name was originally proposed as the Victor although
eventually this was rejected in favour of the Spiteful.
The first prototype was a converted Spitfire Mk XIV, serial NN660, which
in common with the second prototype retained the original Spitfire tail unit.
The first true prototype, serial NN664, first flew in June 1944.
Spiteful Prototype NN664
This aircraft was built to production standard and featured
the new wing, inward retracting undercarriage and a new fin, rudder and
tailplane of increased area to improve directional stability.
The early aircraft did, however, display a number of problems
none of which could not have been solved. It was recognised that this new
aircraft was taking the ability of piston engined design to the absolute
limits.
373 aircraft were originally ordered from a revised Spitfire
F21 contract although production was cancelled with the end of the war and the
introduction into service of the new jet powered Meteor and Vampire.
Specification and Performance
Mark XIV - the type 371 was fitted with a Griffon 69 engine
rated at 2,375 hp driving a 5 blade propeller. The top speed was 475 mph. 19
were built. Of these aircraft 1 was converted to a Mark XV and 2 were
converted to Mark XVI.
Mark XV - Fitted with a Griffon 89 or 90 engine rated at
2,350 hp and driving two contra rotating three blade propellers. The one
converted aircraft, RB520, was subsequently used in the development of the
Seafang. Top speed was 483 mph.
Mark XVI - The two conversions from the Mark XIV, RB516 and
RB518 were fitted with the Griffon 101 engine producing 2,420 hp and a top
speed of 494 mph.
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