What is the pattern of the Spitfire wings?
An elliptical wing is a planform whose leading and trailing edges each approximate two segments of an ellipse. It is not to be confused with annular wings, which may be elliptically shaped. The Supermarine Spitfire uses a modified elliptical wing. The elliptical wing is often considered the most aerodynamically efficient planform for minimizing induced drag. Its shape produces an ideal lift distribution across the span.
Were the Germans scared of the Spitfire?
For the Germans, it seems, it was more acceptable to have been shot down by the RAF’s Spitfire, rather than any other aircraft. Later, in 1944, the same thinking applied for the Allies in Normandy. Spitfire was more maneuverable, but had much shorter range. Mustang, with drop tanks, could get to Berlin and back, and take advantage of higher altitude to bounce Luftwaffe fighters trying to get to the bombers.During WWII Axis pilots tested captured Allied aircraft: they deemed the Spitfire a miserable fighter, the LaGG–3 poorly maneuverable and the P-51 disconcerting.