Spitfire IV BP929

Mon Jul 16, 2007 10:55 am

Anybody knows anything about the history of Spitfire PR IV BP929.
The remains are said to be in Stockholm, Sweden.
Was it one of the Russian based , shot down over Norway?

Tue Jul 17, 2007 12:29 pm

You'd best ask PeterA about this. I have seen photographs which I believe are from this wreck... which is substantial. I have no details upon it's present condition, or any efforts to restore her, but I do believe that it was operated by the Soviet Air Force. IIRC, the PR IV actually had a pressurized cockpit!

Cheers,
Richard

Tue Jul 17, 2007 3:11 pm

I read somewhere that it is currently being restored, but that's all I know about it. Oh yeah, and it's the only Mk. IV in existence, but I'm sure everyone knew that. Will try to find more info.

Wed Jul 18, 2007 1:08 pm

I think it should be emphasized that the RAF serial ID BP929 is provisional only. When the data plate on the firewall was removed, and Spitfire data plates do not carry the RAF ID, it was found that in pencil under the plate was written a 92 followed by what looked like a much much larger 9 by best interpretation. BP929 was one of a small number of PRIV Spitfires left by the RAF and operated by the Russians with Red Stars.

This is not a 100% 'blue chip' identification at this time.

It was recovered from a Norwegian mountain but has since been acquired by a Swedish enthusiast who is slowly resuscitating it.

Here is a shot of the starboard engine cowling with evidence of the Red Star still visible.

PeterA

Wed Jul 18, 2007 6:34 pm

Thanks Peter! I asked because this topic was discussed on a Swedish message board. I mixed this up with AA810 also supposed to be in Sweden (ex Norway, shot down 420305).