Hawker Hurricane

The Hawker Hurricane was designed by Sir Sydney Camm, who also designed the Hunter and Harrier. In total, 14,533 Hurricanes were produced between 1935 and 1944 at factories in Britain and Canada. Whilst well known for its service in the Battle of Britain, the Hurricane served with distinction in Africa as a ground-attack aircraft, at sea as the Sea Hurricane, and was also flown by the Russian Air Force, who received over 2,900 examples. 

In RAF service, the Hurricane is now well known for its role in the Battle of Britain. Whilst at the time British propaganda concentrated on the newer and sleeker Spitfire, around 60% of Luftwaffe losses during the battle were attributed to the Hurricane. The BBMF operates a pair of Hurricanes, both of which are historically significant. LF363 is believed to be the last Hurricane to enter service with the RAF, and PZ865 was the last Hurricane ever built. 

It would not be an Air Tattoo without the participation of the BBMF. This year, the squadron will be sending one of its two Hurricanes in support of our ‘Fighter Meet’ theme, which will be displayed alongside one of their Spitfires and their recently repainted Dakota. 

Photo Credit: Paul Fiddian