Fairey IIIB

From Wings of Linen
Fairey IIIB
Role Seaplane Bomber
Manufacturer Fairey
Introduction 2nd half 1918 [1]
Primary user U.K. (RNAS)
Number built 20[1]
Developed from Fairey IIIA
Wingspan 19.1 m (62 ft 9 in) [2]
Engine 260hp Sunbeam Maori II
Armament rear flexible Lewis
600lb of bombs
Crew 2
Max Speed 153 km/h (95 mph) [3][2]
Climb 610 m (2,000 ft) in 5:00[2]
2,000 m (6,500 ft) in 17:50[3]
2,100 m (7,000 ft) in 29:00[2]
3,000 m (10,000 ft) in 37:50[3]
Service Ceiling 2,700 m (8,840 ft)[2] - 3,100 m (10,300 ft)[3]
Endurance 4:30 [3][2]

While the Fairey IIIA was designed for shipbourne use, the Fairey IIIB was a seaplane focused on bombing duties. The upper wing was extended and supported by king posts, tail surfaces were enlarged, and floats were fitted. Like the IIIA, the Fairey Patent Camber Gear was standard, allowing the ailerons to be used as flaps during takeoff for extra lift. [3]

While twenty had been built and accepted by the Armistice, only seven were in service, with Squadrons No.219 and 220.[1]

For more information, see Wikipedia:Fairey III.

References

Citations
  1. 1.0 1.1 1.2 Nowarra, p.86.
  2. 2.0 2.1 2.2 2.3 2.4 2.5 Nowarra, pp.200-201.
  3. 3.0 3.1 3.2 3.3 3.4 3.5 Bruce'69, p.231.
Bibliography
  • J.M. Bruce. British Aeroplanes 1914-18. Great Britain: Funk & Wagnalls, 1957, 1969. ISBN 0370000382
  • Heinz J. Nowarra, Bruce Robertson, and Peter G. Cooksley. Marine Aircraft of the 1914-1918 War. Letchworth, Herts, England: Harleyford Publications Limited, 1966. ISBN 0900435070