The two ex-Turkish Spitfires in RAF service in the Middle East were re-serialled HK854 and HK856. Comparison of the shades in national markings (assuming these were the same on both) suggests that they were both in more or less standard Desert scheme colours. Both aeroplanes displayed slightly non-standard camouflage layout, and unusual size and position of the roundel, fin flash and serial. Notably, all these items were quite similar on both aircraft. The Spitfires looked pretty standard late Mk Is, with armoured windscreen, voltage regulator behind the pilot's headrest, late style aerial mast and armoured cover of the fuel tank. It would be interesting to learn what their technical condition was on delivery to the RAF in Egypt, and thus how substantial an overhaul was needed before they were put back in service.
Mystery surrounds the origins of Spitfire I HK856 - here photographed in Italy in 1943. It and HK854 were in the Middle East by 1941, with serial numbers assigned locally and not on production contracts. They may well have been the two Spitfire Is (P9566-9567) diverted from RAF contracts and shipped to Turkey in May 1940, assuming that they were transferred back to RAF ownership whilst en route through the Mediterranean.

Самолёты на фотографии: Aircrafts on the photo: Supermarine Spitfire - ВеликобританияUnited Kingdom - 1936