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21Dec
SPITFIRE MK26
Spitfire MK26 Overview
The Spitfire MK26 is a modern kit-built aircraft designed to capture the essence and iconic design of the legendary Supermarine Spitfire, the British fighter that played a crucial role during World War II. Produced by Supermarine Aircraft, the MK26 is a scaled-down replica that offers aviation enthusiasts the opportunity to own and fly a piece of history. While not identical in size or performance to the original Spitfire, the MK26 retains the unmistakable aesthetic and aerodynamic features of its predecessor, combining them with modern engineering for recreational flying.
Description
The Spitfire MK26 is an 80% scale replica of the original Spitfire, meticulously designed to emulate its distinctive elliptical wings, streamlined fuselage, and classic warbird appearance. Constructed primarily from aluminum, the MK26 uses modern materials and techniques to ensure durability and reliability while reducing weight.
Powered by a modern piston engine, typically a V6 or V8, the MK26 offers excellent performance for a kit-built aircraft. Its tandem cockpit seating accommodates a pilot and a passenger, with dual controls available for training purposes. The cockpit is equipped with modern avionics, allowing for both visual flight rules (VFR) and more advanced operations.
The MK26 is intended for private owners who are passionate about historic aviation. It is not equipped with armaments, but its design faithfully replicates the look and feel of the original Spitfire. Builders assemble the aircraft from kits provided by Supermarine Aircraft, allowing them to personalize and customize their aircraft while adhering to aviation standards.
Specifications
| General Specifications | Details |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Supermarine Aircraft |
| Role | Kit-Built Replica, Recreational Aircraft |
| Scale | 80% of the original Supermarine Spitfire |
| Seating Capacity | 2 (Tandem configuration) |
| Length | 22 ft 10 in (6.96 m) |
| Wingspan | 24 ft 0 in (7.32 m) |
| Height | 6 ft 8 in (2.03 m) |
| Empty Weight | Approx. 1,000 lbs (454 kg) |
| Max Takeoff Weight (MTOW) | 1,760 lbs (798 kg) |
| Engine Options | Modern V6 or V8 engines (e.g., General Motors LS3, 300–350 hp) |
| Fuel Capacity | Approx. 40 gallons (151 liters) |
| Range | 450–500 nautical miles (833–926 km) |
| Cruise Speed | 130–150 knots (150–173 mph / 240–278 km/h) |
| Top Speed | 200 knots (230 mph / 370 km/h) |
| Rate of Climb | Approx. 1,500 ft/min (457 m/min) |
| Service Ceiling | 12,000 ft (3,658 m) |
| Takeoff Distance | 600–800 ft (183–244 m) |
| Landing Distance | 700–900 ft (213–274 m) |
Performance
The Spitfire MK26 provides a thrilling and responsive flying experience, designed to evoke the agility and power of the original Spitfire while maintaining the safety and reliability of modern engineering. Its lightweight frame, coupled with a powerful V6 or V8 engine, delivers impressive performance, including a climb rate of around 1,500 feet per minute and a top speed of up to 200 knots.
The aircraft’s range of 450–500 nautical miles makes it suitable for cross-country flights, while its short takeoff and landing distances allow for operations from smaller airstrips. The MK26 is also highly maneuverable, making it ideal for pilots interested in light aerobatic flying or precision handling.
The use of modern materials and systems ensures ease of maintenance and a high degree of safety compared to its wartime predecessor. While it lacks the original’s combat capabilities, the MK26 captures the spirit of the Spitfire, offering enthusiasts an accessible way to connect with aviation history.
Conclusion
The Spitfire MK26 is more than just an aircraft—it is a tribute to one of the most iconic planes in aviation history. Perfect for pilots and history enthusiasts, the MK26 combines the timeless design of the Supermarine Spitfire with the advantages of modern engineering. Whether on the ground or in the air, the MK26 is sure to turn heads and inspire admiration wherever it goes.
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