The Whirlwind was an innovative twin-engined fighter, sometimes referred to as England's "Lightning". It is not well known as very few were produced and it was only used operationally by two squadrons in the RAF, and then only for two years, after which the squadrons converted to the hardier Typhoon. The Whirlwind was not a bad fighter, but it was difficult to build and maintain. Its engines were temperamental and prone to failure, and two or three Spitfires or Hurricanes could be built in the time it took to roll a Whirlwind out the factory door. This, more than anything else, restricted the Whirlwind's contribution to the war. Nevertheless, the two Whirlwind squadrons saw a good deal of action, participating in numerous "rhubarbs" and "rodeos" and often escorting Blenheims or other bombers on raids as far as Antwerp. In combat, the Whirlwind usually gave as good as it got and its firepower and speed were appreciated by its pilots.
TACTICS: Conserve ammunition by using short bursts avoiding poor shooting angles. 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 perhaps reversing for another attack. Stay moving fast and attempt to minimize the importance of maneuver. Your guns are powerful enough that you can often bring down an enemy fighter with a single close-range burst, so be content to limit your battles to those where you start in an advantageous position and can gain a few kills in one or two moves. If enemies begin to outmaneuver you, or you run low on ammunition, break off combat at high speed. This isn't cowardice, it's a wise tactical retreat. Remember that your engine performance is far greater at low altitudes (below 10,000 feet) so attempt to fight there.
STRENGTHS: Heavy firepower. Structurally tough. Well-armored.
WEAKNESSES: Mediocre maneuverability, especially at higher altitudes. Limited ammunition.
MODELS:
Mk.I: Original December 1940 model.
Mk.IA: December 1941 fighter-bomber upgrade, with more armor and a thicker wing able to carry bombs.
