Chino Airshow 2012
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.