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A Fairey Swordfish is prepared for take-off
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A Fairey Swordfish is prepared for take-off
A Fairey Swordfish is prepared for take-off from the escort carrier HMS Battler in May 1943. Date: 1943
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Media ID 9890873
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1943 Carrier Escort Fairey Prepared Swordfish
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This evocative photograph captures the moment of preparation as a Fairey Swordfish aircraft readies for take-off from the flight deck of HMS Battler, an escort carrier, in May 1943. The Swordfish, a British biplane torpedo bomber and reconnaissance aircraft, played a crucial role in the Second World War, particularly in the Battle of the Atlantic. The image reveals the meticulous process involved in launching a plane from a carrier. The crew, dressed in protective gear, are positioned at various stations around the aircraft, ensuring all systems are functioning correctly before take-off. The propeller is turned by hand, and the plane is secured to the deck with ropes and chains. The arrestor hook, a crucial safety feature that helps the plane come to a halt after landing, is raised and locked into place. The carrier, HMS Battler, was a vital asset in the escort fleet, providing protection to convoys transporting essential supplies from America to the UK. The Swordfish, with its distinctive biplane configuration and distinctive "Arthur" insignia, was a common sight on the flight decks of such carriers during the war. This photograph offers a unique glimpse into the daily life of a wartime carrier and the critical role that both the Swordfish and HMS Battler played in the Allied war effort. The determination and focus of the crew, as they prepare for take-off, serve as a reminder of the bravery and resilience of those who served during this pivotal period in history.
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