The Spitfire Story

The Spitfire was the plane that nobody wanted. It was turned down by the British Government, by industry and even by the Royal Air Force, when the design was first presented to them. It survived only because of the conviction of its great designer, R.J. Mitchell, to become by far the most famous, the most inspirational, the most successful warplane of its generation; the very symbol and image of British pride and power, as the killer fighter of the decisive air battle of World War 2, the Battle of Britain. It was the only allied airplane that was kept in production throughout the entire duration of the war, appearing in over 40 different versions, and flying in every theatre of the war. With hitherto unseen footage, this programme tells the entire story of this remarkable airplane, from its inception, to its great triumphs in battle.

• documentary