Underwing serials on RAF fighters

[Dave Fleming]

When did the RAF stop applying underwing serials to fighters, and was the order sent out to remove those already in service?

I probably have the answer in my books, but due to some 'interior re-design' they are inaccessible at present!!

Edited January 9, 2011 by Dave Fleming

[JohnT]

Dave

is that pre WW2 underwing serials or post WW2? I have a monograph on post war RAF markings and get this for you easily tomorrow as just headed for bed due early start scheduled but don't have anything on pre war removal.

JohnT

EDIT - Dave just re -read my reply and apologies for the late night confusion. Somehow I read your enquiry wrongly and thought that you were asking when they were added back on - not when they came off

My excuse is a combination or late night bleary eyes, tired brain and down right stupidity. I have a copy of Bombing Colours somewhere and that might tell me when the RAF cganged for bombers at any rate so I'll have a look when at home later

Edited January 10, 2011 by JohnT

[Super Aereo]

AFAIK they were removed entirely at the outbreak of war, but probabl the process had started earlier, possibly in 1938...

[Edgar]

Supermarine's mod 125 was "To bring the national markings and aircraft numbers on fuselage and the national markings on planes into line with SIS 4 as modified by SIS 861 and to delete aircraft numbers from planes," and it was dated 30-11-39, having been previously discussed, in committee, during early September. Can't tell you what the first part means, since I don't have copies of the SIS instructions.

Edgar

Edited January 10, 2011 by Edgar