A Hawker Hurricane IIB in Moradabad, India (Trying to ID it)

[Jagan]

For folks who havent seen this - This was breaking news a day or two ago : http://www.warbirds.in/uttarpradesh/...icane-iib.html


(Photo : Jagran http://jagran.com/ )


A rare and complete Hawker Hurricane IIB fighter aircraft preserved at the Uttar Pradesh Police Academy in Moradabad has been requisitioned by the Indian Air Force - and a deal has been struck in which a MiG-21 UM has been given to the Academy.

The aircraft appears to be a victim of a forced landing possibly on its belly, the prop shows damage of the blades braking off except for stubs attached to the spinner... it looks like this http://www.rafcommands.com/galleries...N780_Salvage01 sadly there is no dataplate or serial thta has been located yet - but I do have an engine number.

MERLIN XX No-42639RIGHT HAND TRACTOR
A 219867

The wings show six gun ports each - so we know its a IIB. The location it pranged is Moradabad which is 100m ENE of Delhi.

I have taken a first level look at the Hurricane Losses I have in SEAC - in my DB there are 1288 prangs - and could not come up with any candidates. Will take a more detailed look later again.. FWIW There were roughly about 2500 Hurricanes delivered to the Far East.

I know its a long shot - but i have seen engine numbers recorded inv arious sources - ORBs, 1180s etc.. Putting it out there should we pin the Identity down.

regards

Jagan

[paulmcmillan]

Jagan I an sure that Rolls Royce Heritage trust has a record of Merlin numbers and delivery (obliviously not in final aircraft) but if you know delivered to factory X at time Y - will provide a strong clue as to the range of serials you would be looking for Paul

[Jagan]

Hi Paul, A friend is already working that angle!