'Spitfire', c1943. The iconic British Second World War fighter was designed by Reginald Mitchell. Powered by a Rolls-Royce Merlin engine, the Spitfire was integral to Britain's front-line air defences during the war and played a crucial role in the Battle of Britain. The Mk V was introduced in 1941. From "Wings On Her Shoulders", by Katharine Bentley Beauman, Late Fight Officer W.A.A.F. [Hutchinson & Co Ltd, London, New York, Melbourne, c1943]