Designed before the MkIX, but following it into service because radical design changes would have meant unacceptable production delays. The Spitfire MkVIII was an un-pressurized version of the MkVII. All MkVIIIs were built for overseas use, were fitted with the 'C' type wing, and were stressed to carry up to 1000 lbs of bombs on wing and centre section racks. Because of the generally higher ambient temperatures where these aircraft operated, gun freezing was not a problem, so many were fitted with four 20mm cannon. Extended wing tips were first fitted but they were later removed and replaced with standard wing tips. Once the Merlin 66 had been fitted and the tips reverted to standard, the MkVIII was an excellent aeroplane, liked by many that flew it. The performance was as good as the MkIX but with many advantages added on.