The Hawker Typhoon IA production aircraft began to enter RAF service in September 1941, and went into action in the summer of 1942. Initial usage proved a great disappointment, with unsatisfactory high-altitude performance, inferior rate of climb and frequent engine breakdowns. When structural failure of the tail unit caused a number of fatal accidents it was suggested that the Typhoon should be withdrawn from service. Fortunately its superb low-level performance ensured that fast action was taken to overcome the shortcomings, and introduction of the Sabre II engine brought improved reliability.
Typhoon IA were armed with 12 x 7.7mm Browning machine-guns, but the bomb-dropping, cannon-firing or rocket-firing Typhoon IB became 'train-busters' and, with the invasion of Europe, proved to be a valuable component of the 2nd Tactical Air Force. Utilised on a 'cab-rank' system, under which Typhoons on standing patrol could be called in from the ground for tactical close support of army formations, they decimated the enemy's Panzer divisions. Indeed, the Typhoon's fire-power was sometimes compared with that of a broadside from a cruiser, and was sufficient to penetrate the most heavily armoured tanks.
A total of 3,330 Typhoons were produced for the RAF, but by the end of 1945 none remained in front-line service.
