A historic Supermarine Spitfire Mk. IXe fighter aircraft that served with the Czechoslovak No. 312 Squadron of the British Royal Air Force (RAF) during World War II has returned to the Czech Republic. The aircraft, built in 1945, was officially unveiled at Točná Airport in Prague on Monday.
Visitors to the event also had the opportunity to see another legendary British fighter in flight, the Hawker Hurricane. Both aircraft are closely associated with the service of Czechoslovak airmen during World War II.
President Petr Pavel described the Spitfire's return as a tribute to those who flew these aircraft and helped keep them operational. He stressed the importance of preserving the stories of the people who served in them.
British Ambassador to the Czech Republic Matt Field said the history of the Czechoslovak RAF squadrons reflected the courage and struggle for freedom that united the two nations. He added that it was important to remember both the pilots who flew the Spitfires and the values they defended.