The name Argus II was the British designation for the Fairchild Model 24W-41A (US military designation UC-61/61A). During the latter stages of the Second World War, this aircraft, serial number FZ817, was operated by No. 334 Wing as part of the RAF Balkan Air Force, primarily from Brindisi, in southern Italy. By 1946, it was re-located to Kabrit, in Egypt and then – although officially being returned to the USA – was transferred to the Misr Flying School, in 1947: indeed, it is possible that, technically, it was donated to Cairo by Washington. It was painted in high-speed silver overall and wore the standard set of late-war RAF markings, but the engine cowling was in darker metal finish and there was a black anti-glare panel on the top forward fuselage. (Artwork by Peter Penev)