Chino Airshow 2006
Fairey Firefly
The Fairey Firefly was
originally designed for fleet reconnaissance for the Royal Navy. It
first flew in December of 1941 and entered operational service in March
of 1943. It was used in all theaters of war and fulfilled many
operational roles including fighter, night fighter and anti-submarine
duties. The Firefly remained in service with the UK and Australia after
the war and were used for ground support in Malaya. They continued to
be manufactured post-war and remained in service until 1956 when they
were replaced with the Fairey Gannet. About 1,533 were built. At least
3 remain flying today, with others in restoration. This one was built
in 1950.