The Gloster Gladiator was a British biplane fighter aircraft that served as the last biplane fighter in the Royal Air Force (RAF) during World War II. Developed in the 1930s, it featured a distinctive biplane design with fabric-covered steel tube framework and staggered wings. Powered by a Bristol Mercury radial engine, the Gladiator had a top speed of approximately 250 miles per hour and a range of 600 miles. 

Armed with four .303 inch Browning machine guns, two in the upper fuselage and two in the wings, the Gladiator was a formidable aircraft in air-to-air combat. It also had the capability to carry bombs or rockets for ground attack missions. Its maneuverability and stability in flight made it a reliable and versatile fighter.

The Gladiator saw action in various theaters of war, including North Africa, the Mediterranean, and the early stages of the Battle of Britain. Despite being outclassed by more advanced monoplane fighters, the Gladiator proved its worth in combat, often holding its own against enemy aircraft. Its resilience and adaptability were particularly evident during the defense of Malta, where it played a crucial role in fending off Axis attacks.

While the Gladiator was gradually phased out and replaced by more modern aircraft towards the end of the war, its contribution to the war effort should not be overlooked. It symbolized the determination and spirit of the RAF and played a significant role in the early stages of World War II.