ENDGAME

Rocket firing Hawker Typhoon MkIbs of 174 (Mauritius) Squadron RAF dominate the skies over Northern Holland during the closing stages of World War II, March 1945.  

Conceived initially as a fast powerful fighter, the Hawker Typhoon’s performance in this role proved to be disappointing. However, it eventually came into its own as a superlative ground attack aircraft, and combined with the skill of their pilots, became one of the most potent weapons of World War Two.

Flying low level at high speed and heavily armed, this formidable aircraft went on to play a leading role in the Allied advance through occupied Europe.

Ahead of the Normandy landings and all the way through to the end of hostilities, the Typhoon, flown by determined hard hitting pilots, became the scourge of the German Panzer Divisions, and caused chaos with enemy road and rail communications. Targets along the Rhine, over one of Germanys arteries of supply and communication and last line of defence, were given special attention by the Typhoon squadrons. Barges carrying vital supplies, munition trains on railroads hugging the river bank, and the ever-present movement of troops and armour toward the battlefront were constantly attacked from the air.

In his detailed drawing, Richard Taylor portrays the drama as a pair of Typhoon MkIbs of 174 Mauritius Squadron RAF are seen at full-throttle approaching their target area, wreaking havoc with their powerful rockets.

At the centre of the action is aircraft RB396. Delivered to 174 Sqn in early 1945, she flew at least 36 combat missions before a forced landing in the Netherlands caused damage on 1 April. Today her reconstruction is the dedicated focus of the Hawker Typhoon Preservation Group, a UK-based charity aiming to restore her to airworthy condition as the only genuine combat veteran Typhoon in the world.

Working closely with our friends at the Hawker Typhoon Preservation Group, we’re delighted to present this limited edition print as a lasting tribute to this legendary aircraft.

Your orders will directly benefit the rebuild!

As part of our commitment to seeing this iconic warbird take to the skies once more, a portion of all profits from the sale of Richard’s prints will go directly to the Hawker Typhoon Preservation Group.