Yes, both the Supermarine Spitfire and the Republic P-47 Thunderbolt were used by the Royal Air Force (RAF) during World War II, albeit at different times and in different roles. These two iconic fighter aircraft were integral to the Allied victory, but their paths crossed mainly toward the later stages of the war.
Supermarine Spitfire:
The Spitfire, a British single-seat fighter, became one of the most famous aircraft of WWII, particularly for its role in the Battle of Britain. Its agility, powerful Rolls-Royce Merlin engine, and versatile design made it effective in a variety of roles, including interceptor, reconnaissance, and ground-attack. As the war progressed, the Spitfire evolved with numerous versions, featuring improved engines, armament, and design modifications.
Republic P-47 Thunderbolt:
The P-47, also known as the "Jug," was an American-made fighter that joined the RAF as part of lend-lease agreements between the United States and Britain. The Thunderbolt was known for its heavy armor, long range, and robust firepower, with eight .50 caliber machine guns and the ability to carry bombs and rockets for ground attack missions. The P-47 was particularly effective in escorting bombers over enemy territory, and it had an impressive combat record in both the European and Pacific theaters.
Use by the RAF:
While the Spitfire was primarily a British aircraft, the P-47 Thunderbolt was used by the RAF in several important operations. The RAF received the P-47 under the Lend-Lease Act, and many were used in fighter-bomber missions and long-range escort duties, particularly in 1944 and 1945. The Thunderbolt was especially useful in Operation Overlord (the D-Day landings), where it supported Allied ground troops and attacked German defenses.
The two aircraft operated alongside one another in the later stages of the war, and their combined capabilities—Spitfires for fast, agile dogfighting and P-47s for bomber escort and ground attack—made them a formidable force in the skies over Europe. While they were from different manufacturers and had different design philosophies, both contributed to the Allied victory and became symbols of air superiority during WWII.