Powerful In The World War, Stronger In The Cold War – Evolving The Supermarine

508.

The end of WWII brought a time of momentary peace which followed with a descent into the Cold War against the Soviet Union. Neighboring nations were on edge about a potential conflict so they were eager to stay ahead in terms of combat technology. Now equipped with jet engine technology the Royal Air Force sought a new aircraft to deter these threats in the form of the Supermarine Type 508.

The Type 508 was an experimental carrier-borne jet which could be used as an interceptor and launching nuclear attacks. It was developed by legendary aviation company Supermarine in the late 1940s and served as an example of the new kind of jet needed to counter threats from Russia.

“Both the 508 and 529 featured straight-wing configurations and as predicted their speed was relatively modest at 607mph.  By the time the first prototypes had flown it had already been decided that a swept wing version would be needed.”

– BAE Systems

The Type 508 was a nice experiment in jet engine technology but ultimately it was not what the Royal Air Force was looking to utilize. However, along with the Type 529, did provide a strong basis which would eventually grow into the Vickers Supermarine Scimitar. Archival footage of the Vickers Supermarine Type 508 can be seen in this clip.