The Typhoon was a large, robust airplane designed around the powerful but unproven 2,000 horsepower Sabre engine. It was also the first RAF fighter that could exceed 400 MPH in level flight. Initially, the Typhoon suffered numerous teething problems with its engine and had a flaw in its tail design that caused several crashes, leading to pilot distrust of the aircraft. Compared to the well-behaved Spitfires and Hurricanes, the Typhoon was difficult to handle, having a high wing loading and stalling speed. The Typhoon was initially employed as a low-altitude air-to-air fighter but its low rate of roll and disappointing maneuverability hindered it against German fighters. However, its speed and its armament of four 20mm cannon made it useful for ground attack and it quickly replaced the Hurricane II in this role. Its strong, thick wings proved adaptable to various loads and it was not long before it was carrying a thousand-pound bomb under each wing. Late in 1943, it was adapted for firing rockets. It could carry up to sixteen but eight was a typical load with four under each wing. Its high wing loading, a weakness in air combat, proved a blessing for low-altitude fighter-bomber work making the Typhoon a stable and effective strafer, bomber, and rocketeer. In that role, the Typhoon would serve valiantly until the end of the war.
TACTICS: Generally avoid tight-turning dogfights, except with Fw 190s whom you can out-turn. Against other opponents, use high-speed "slashing" attacks, extending away at high speed before reversing for another attack. Stay moving fast and attempt to minimize the importance of maneuver. Be patient and make multiple high-speed passes until you get a decent shot. Your guns are powerful enough that you can often bring down an enemy fighter with a single close-range burst. Remember that your top speed is impressive, especially at low altitude.
STRENGTHS: Heavy firepower. Extremely tough and heavily armored. Very fast, especially at low altitude.
WEAKNESSES: Mediocre maneuverability, especially at higher altitudes.
