SPAD SA.1

The pre-synchronizer days led to many innovative ideas to provide a front-firing gun: pushers, top-wing mounts, deflector plates, etc. SPAD chose a unique route in the SPAD SA.1:  a hinged pulpit for a gunner attached in front of the propeller of a traditional tractor biplane. The pulpit was hinged at the undercarriage so it could be moved out of the way for engine maintenance. A speaking tube ran from the pulpit through the propeller hub to the pilot, so that the crewman could maintain at least the semblance of communication.

The SA.1 is most recognizable by its triangular-shaped horizontal stabilizers. There were originally built without the cheek-cowls on the front fuselage sides, but those may have been retrofitted to some models. Ten were built before production switched to the improved SA.2.

1:144 Scale

 * Shapeways: Reduced Aircraft Factory

1:285/6mm/1:288 Scale

 * Shapeways: Reduced Aircraft Factory