The Supermarine Swift was rushed into service with the RAF during 1954 to become Britain's first second-generation jet fighter. In this role it was not deemed a success and has been burdened with a bad reputation since that time. It was eventually replaced by the famous Hawker Hunter that had been extensively delayed because of teething troubles. Although not successful as an interceptor fighter because of its poor performance at high altitude, it eventually found a vital role as a low-level short-range reconnaissance aircraft operating on the edge of the Iron Curtain at the height of the Cold War. Two RAF squadrons flew the Swift FR.5 for five successful years. This book covers the development and operational history of a vital aircraft that is a part of aviation legend.