Time Period: World War I
Country of Origin: France
Type: Biplane, Fighter Aircraft
Manufacturer: SPAD
SPAD S.VII Aircraft Overview
The SPAD S.VII was a French biplane fighter aircraft that was widely used during World War I. It was designed by the French aircraft designer Louis Béchereau and first flew in April 1916. The SPAD S.VII was known for its robust construction, speed, and maneuverability, which made it a formidable opponent for the German fighters of the time.
The SPAD S.VII was powered by a 150 horsepower Hispano-Suiza engine and had a top speed of 215 km/h (134 mph). It was armed with a single synchronized Vickers machine gun firing through the propeller arc, which gave it a significant advantage over earlier aircraft with wing-mounted guns.
The SPAD S.VII was used by many Allied air forces during World War I, including the French, British, Italian, Belgian, and American air forces. It was credited with shooting down many enemy aircraft and played a significant role in achieving air superiority on the Western Front.
Overall, the SPAD S.VII was a highly successful aircraft and paved the way for later generations of fighter planes.
SPAD S.VII Specifications
- Crew: 1 pilot
- Length: 6.08 m (19 ft 11 in)
- Wingspan: 7.82 m (25 ft 8 in)
- Height: 2.20 m (7 ft 3 in)
- Wing Area: 17.85 m² (192.1 sq ft)
- Empty Weight: 500 kg (1,102 lb)
- Gross Weight: 705 kg (1,554 lb)
- Engine: 1 × Hispano-Suiza 8Aa 90° V-8 liquid-cooled engine, 110 kW (150 hp)
- Propeller: 2-bladed wooden
SPAD S.VII Performance
- Maximum Speed: 193 km/h (120 mph) at sea level
- Range: 400 km (250 mi)
- Endurance: 2.66 hours
- Service Ceiling: 5,500 m (18,000 ft)
- Climb Rate: 6 min 40 sec to 2,000 m (6,600 ft)
SPAD S.VII Armament
- Guns: 1 × .303-cal. Vickers machine gun