Fairey Battle was one of the most promising aircraft chosen for the
rapidly expanding RAF in the 1930s. When introduced into service in 1937
it could carry twice as many bombs over twice the distance as the
Hawker Hart and Hind bombers it replaced.

By 1939 it was obsolescent but due to the lack of more modern types
it remained in front line service. Battles of No.226 Squadron were the
first RAF aircraft to be sent to France on the outbreak of war.