Time Period: World War I
Country of Origin: United Kingdom
Type: Biplane, Reconnaissance and Surveillance (Scout)
Manufacturer: Royal Aircraft Factory
Royal Aircraft Factory S.E.4a Aircraft Overview
The Royal Aircraft Factory S.E.4a was a British biplane fighter aircraft that was designed and built during World War I. It was intended to replace the aging Sopwith Camel and was one of the first British aircraft to feature a streamlined fuselage.
The S.E.4a was powered by a 200-horsepower Hispano-Suiza engine and was armed with two synchronized Vickers machine guns. It had a maximum speed of around 130 miles per hour and a range of approximately 300 miles.
Although the S.E.4a was not produced in large numbers, it played an important role in the development of fighter aircraft design during World War I. It was used for testing new engine designs, armament configurations, and other innovations that were later incorporated into more advanced fighter aircraft.
Royal Aircraft Factory S.E.4a Specifications
- Crew: 1
- Length: 20 ft 10 in (6.35 m)
- Wingspan: 27 ft 5+1⁄10 in (8.359 m)
- Height: 9 ft 5 in (2.87 m)
- Powerplant: 1 × Le Rhône rotary engine, 80 hp (60 kW)
Royal Aircraft Factory S.E.4a Performance
- Maximum speed: 90 mph (140 km/h, 78 kn) at sea level.
Royal Aircraft Factory S.E.4a Armament
- Provision for 1× .303 in Lewis gun above upper wing.
