Westland Whirlwind Union Jack Rocks Glass

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The Westland Whirlwind was a British twin-engine fighter developed in the late 1930s and was the RAF’s first single-seat aircraft armed with four 20mm Hispano cannons — an unprecedented concentration of firepower at the time. Powered by two Rolls-Royce Peregrine engines, the Whirlwind first flew on 11 October 1938 and entered service with No. 263 Squadron in June 1940. A total of 114 Whirlwinds were built, including two prototypes, but production was limited due to the Peregrine engine's cancellation and lack of suitable alternatives.

The Whirlwind served with No. 263 and No. 137 Squadrons RAF, primarily flying bomber escort, ground-attack, and low-level intruder missions over occupied France. It excelled at “Rhubarb” operations, attacking German convoys, trains, and E-boats. Although only fielded in small numbers, it was credited with at least 60 confirmed aerial victories, alongside many ground targets destroyed. Its agility at low altitude and heavy armament made it a potent strike aircraft.

The Whirlwind’s operational career ended when 263 Squadron flew its final missions in November 1943, with withdrawal completed by early 1944. Though ultimately overshadowed by aircraft like the Typhoon, the Whirlwind was a technical pioneer that influenced later RAF fighter designs.