Please Note: This is an archived post. The information presented here may not be current and the associated listing may no longer be active.
Vickers-Supermarine 358 Seafire LF.IIIC PP972/G-BUAR has hit the market.
The aircraft is said to be one of only three remaining airworthy Seafires in the world and the only Merlin-powered Seafire to see combat. It was originally built under contract by Westland Aircraft, Ltd. in 1944 and was assigned to 809 (Naval) Squadron, which was deployed to the Far East and participated in Operations Dracula, Bishop, Balsam and Zipper.
In 1946 the machine was assigned to 767 (Naval) Squadron, part of No.1 Operational Flying School at RNAS Easthaven, before being transferred to the French Navy, where it served with No.1 Flottille at Hyeres.
The aircraft was reportedly restored to airworthy condition by Air Leasing, Ltd. from 2012-2015 and now represents a Seafire of 880 (Naval) Squadron Serving aboard HMS Implacable. The airframe, engine and propeller are said to have amassed a total of 15 hours since ground-up professional restoration/overhaul.
The machine is currently based in the UK and is said to be accompanied by “complete documentation of all work and updates per current CAA Regulations.” Seller must be contacted for pricing details. Click here to check out the complete listing.
(Photo: Alan Wilson via Wikimedia Commons)
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