R.A.F. B.E.12a

Just as the BE.2c had not miraculously transformed into a nimble fighter in the guise of the BE.12, the BE.2e fared no better as the R.A.F. B.E.12a. The increase in horsepower and removal of the observer certainly helped, but the 12a was at its heart a docile, stable flyer. For a short period in the summer of 1917, one unit in France used the BE.12a, but they did serve in quieter theaters, such as Macedonia and Palestine. In the Home Defense role a BE.12a shot down one Zeppelin, L.48, on 16/17 June 1917 with the aid of an F.E.2b and DH.2.

One BE12a squadron served in France (№ 101); six on Home Defense; five in Palestine; and three mixed squadrons in Macedonia. About 100 serial numbers were allocated to BE12a production.

Aircraft Chart

1:144 Scale

 * Shapeways: Columbia Aerodrome, CA "Home Defense", Reduced Aircraft Factory

1:285/6mm/1:288 Scale

 * Shapeways: Reduced Aircraft Factory