 The Gauntlet proved successful and popular in operational service, being faster than the aircraft it replaced, the Bristol Bulldog, to form the main part of the RAF's fighter strength.The Gauntlet was the fastest aircraft in the RAF from 1935 to 1937.The Gauntlet Mk II entered service with 56 Squadron and 111 Squadron in May 1936, a further six squadrons being re-equipped with the Gauntlet by the end of the year.