Page 17 - Alan John Leslie Ridge

The Spitfire Mk XVI was produced as a derivative of the Mk IX, mainly as a low altitude fighter and
fighter bomber. The essential difference was the use of an American Packard built Merlin 266
instead of the Rolls-Royce Merlin 66.

Imports of the 266 engine began in late 1944 and the airframes were designated as Mk IX or Mk
XVI depending on whether the Rolls-Royce or Packard Merlins were fitted.

Dimensions

Wing Span (clipped): 32 feet 7in (231 square feet area)

Length: 31 feet 6in (broad chord rudder)

Tail Span: 10 feet 6in

Weights Max take-off: 9,500 lb Normal 7900 lb

Power Unit: Packard Merlin 266 delivering 1580 (max) hp

Engine Weight: 1645 lbs

Airscrew: 4 blade constant speed Rotol airscrew with Jablo or Hydulignum wood blades

Armamen:t 2 x 20mm cannon with 120 rounds

4 x 0·303 machine guns with 350 rounds each