"Royal Aircraft Factory» SE5a. A photo. Characteristics
United Kingdom
A type: Single single-engine biplane fighter
Crew: one pilot
In 1916 the company «Royal Aircraft Factory" at Farnborough-based aircraft SE (Scout Experimental) 5 was established aircraft SE5a, which became one of the most successful fighters of the First World War. Five companies producing this aircraft en masse, and made over 18 months before the end of hostilities 5125 copies. Plane SE5a was the main fighter in Royal Summer packages (RFC), and the new Royal Air Force.
Durable, reliable and maneuverable fighter that helped the Allies to achieve in the year 1918 air superiority over the Germans on the Western Front. This fighter was the last year of the war has become a favorite of many air aces, among whom were people of such a level as Mennok, Makkaden and Dallas, aircraft SE5a achieved many victories.
After the war, 1920-ies some copies were in use in Australia, Canada and South Africa, while a small number in the United States was not equipped with other engines and fly under the designation SE5E. Currently, there are six authentic planes, two of which are in flying condition - the plane SE5a to Shuttleworth Collection and the only aircraft in the world SE5E, which is operated by Kermit Weeks in Florida.
Basic data
Dimensions:
- Length: 6,38 m
- Wingspan: 8,11 m
- Height: 2,89 m
The weight:
- BLANK: 694 kg
- Maximum take-off: 929 kg
Aircraft performance characteristics:
- Maximum speed: 193 km / h
- Flight duration: 2,25 hours
- Powerplant: W.4a «Viper»
- Power: 200 l. from. (149,3 kW)
Date of first flight: January 12 1917 years
The surviving airworthy modifications: SE5a and SE5E
On right: Plane SE5a Shuttleworth Collection of more flies with 25 years 56-marks Squadron.