Back

Spitfire Spy over China Unauthorized, high-risk photo-recon missions

You can almost hear the Griffon growl as RAF BBMF pilot Sqn. Ldr. Andy Millikin brings Spitfire PR Mk XIX PS915 in close to the camera lens of John Dibbs. Note the scoop on the nose under the exhaust stubs, which was the air intake for the cockpit pressurization “blower” of these high-altitude versions. (Photo by John Dibbs/Facebook.com/theplanepicturecompany)

492

Flight Lieutenant Edward “Ted” Powles, an RAF Spitfire pilot based at Kai Tak, Hong Kong, flew secret and clandestine, high-altitude photographic reconnaissance missions over communist China in a Spitfire PR Mk XIX during the Korean War. His Spitfire is now represented by Spitfire PR.XIX PS915 operated by the Royal Air Force Battle of Britain Memorial Flight (BBMF). Ted Powles In 1951-52, Flt. Lt. Ted Powles commanded a small detachment of photo-reconnaissance Spitfire PR Mk XIXs...

PARDON THE INTERRUPTION

You need to be a Flight Journal Digital Member to see the full article
Already a Member?

Purchase Options

membership

All the stories featured in Flight Journal are as unique and varied as the airplanes and warriors who flew them. From popular warbirds like the P-51 Mustang and Me 109 to the Lockheed SR-71 and futuristic hypersonic fighters, we cover the whole spectrum of aviation. We’ve heard from countless readers over the years about how much they enjoy the compelling stories and beautiful photography.