Celebrating 80 Years of an Icon: The CAF SoCal Wing's Spitfire Mk XIV

Camarillo, Calif. (April 3, 2025) -On February 22, 2025, the Commemorative Air Force Southern California Wing marked a remarkable milestone—the 80th birthday of their legendary Supermarine Spitfire Mk XIV. The celebration occurred at the Wing’s home base at Camarillo Airport and featured a special presentation highlighting the aircraft’s rich history and recent restoration efforts.

The event offered guests a deep dive into the journey of this historic aircraft. Volunteers and maintainers shared stories about the extensive maintenance and engineering work currently underway, which is mainly focused on upgrading the engine cooling system to prepare the aircraft for a return to flight. The celebration concluded in true birthday fashion: with a slice of cake and a thrilling engine run of the soon-to-be-airworthy Spitfire, NH749.

This Spitfire has a unique story. Delivered in February 1945, NH749 was one of only 957 Mk XIV models built. Originally sent to No. 33 Maintenance Unit at RAF Lyneham for combat preparation, it arrived too late to see action in Europe during World War II. Instead, it was reassigned to the Royal Air Force’s Southeast Asia Command and, in 1947, was transferred to the Indian Air Force, marking the beginning of a new chapter in its global journey.

Now, this aircraft continues to inspire eight decades after it first rolled off the production line. With its iconic Griffon-powered engine and sleek silhouette, NH749 serves not just as a symbol of British engineering but as a living reminder of the international legacy of the Spitfire.

Watch the full presentation and engine run in our video below:

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