Savoia-Pomilio S.P.2

The Savoia-Pomilio SP.2 was a derivative of the Farman M.F.11 "Shorthorn", built to accommodate the powerful Fiat A.12 engine. While it was a fine design for its time, the failure of the SIA 7b programme left the SP.2 and SP.3 serving much longer than they deserved -- well in to 1918. While its strength was appreciated, its slow speed and lack of maneuverability became a detriment, and it was not until the arrival of more modern machines in mid-1918 that it was finally retired to training schools. Though largely forgotten, the SP.2 and SP.3 were important reconnaissance platforms for the Italian air force in 1917-1918.

A flexible front machine gun was frequently carried on a turret-mount, fired by the observer who sat behind the pilot. This allowed firing over the top wing as well as forward and too the sides, though perhaps it was not the most comfortable gunner position. A cannon 25.4mm Fiat cannon was fitted to the SP.2bis.

1:144 Scale

 * Shapeways: Reduced Aircraft Factory

1:285/6mm/1:288 Scale

 * Shapeways: Reduced Aircraft Factory