This prototype de Havilland D.H. 77 single-seat low-wing monoplane fighter was designed by W. G. Carter and powered by a Napier Rapier I engine. This prototype, J9771, was first flown in July 1929. It is seen here in the New Typres Park at the RAF display at Hendon which was held on 28th June 1930. Note the centrally mounted telescopic sight to the front of the windshield. Scanned from an original photograph, photographer unknown.

This prototype de Havilland 77 was built to Air Ministry Specification F.20/27, which called for a single seat interceptor fighter of short-range with exceptional climb and manoeuvrability. It first flew on 11th July 1929 and was delivered to the Martlesham Heath and purchased for trails by the Air Ministry in March 1930 and allocated serial J9771. These trails were completed in September 1930 the aircraft image seen here dated to the rear as 17th June 1930, before a recorded flight on 20th June 1930. Scanned from a original Air Ministry photograph, photographer unknown.

The DH.77 was built to an RAF requirement for a lightweight interceptor fighter. It first flew from Stag Lane on 11 July 1929. Tested by rhe RAF at Martlesham Heath, it was then used by DH and Napier for testing the latter's Rapier engine until retirement in June 1934. From DH 60 years ago.