Production rates
In 1986, the historian Corelli Barnett upset enthusiasts by suggesting the Spitfire took twice as many work-hours to build as the Messerschmitt Bf 109. It seems he took his figures from earlier production in Southampton. In fact, Castle Bromwich achieved tremendous rates for mass production that rivalled German and even American factories.
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The drawing office at Castle Bromwich. Production on the scale established there required a vast effort from designers as well as engineering workers.
Philip Insley -- CBAF Archive/ Vickers Archives |
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