The Canadian Warplane Heritage operates this fine example of a Fairey Firefly.   The CWH's Firefly has been restored in the colors and markings of 825 (RCN) Squadron, which flew Mk 5's from the aircraft carrier HMCS 'Magnificent,' circa 1953.   The Royal Canadian Navy fielded 65 Mk AS-5 Fireflies on board its aircraft carriers between 1946 and 1954, and operated the aircraft in the anti-submarine role, as the letters 'AS' indicate.

The Fairey Firefly was designed to be a carrier based reconnaissance fighter and first flew in December of 1941.   It was an all-metal, low-wing monoplane that featured separate enclosed cockpits for the pilot and navigator.   The plane was also noted for its innovative wing flaps, that when extended, increased both the wing area and their lift.   This was very helpful during carrier landings.

The Mk. 5 however was a post war aircraft, making its debut in 1947.   Just over 350 Mk. 5's were built, including a number of the anti-submarine variant.   It was powered by a 12-cylinder Rolls-Royce Griffon 74, producing 2250hp and a top speed of 386 mph.   Cruising speed was closer to 220 mph, with a range of 1300 miles.   Armament was stated to be four 20mm cannon in the wings plus two 1000lb bombs beneath.   The Fairey Firefly served in both World War II and the Korean War, and in total over 1600 were produced.