The Swordfish, a remarkable World War II naval aircraft, served with distinction despite being obsolete. Its success was due to excellent handling qualities, making it ideal for carrier operations and torpedo bombing. Characteristics ISBN-13 1-55068-052 8 (Canada) 978-0-7110-0742-0 ISBN-10 0-7110-0742-X(UK) Book cover finish(es) Hardcover ( square spine binding ) Condition Like New Author(s) W. A. Harrison Publisher Ian Allan Publishing Number of pages 80 Published date First published 1977, Reedition 1998 Language(s) English Size 21 x 29,7 x 1 cm Categorie(s) • AVIATION MILITAIRE• AVIATION NAVALE• APPAREILS - CONSTRUCTEURS Description It gives me great pleasure to write the Foreword of this book, and to pay tribute to the gallant aircrew who flew in the Swordfish aircraft, and to the skills of those who built and maintained them.The Royal Navy has flown over 350 different types of aircraft since the formation of the Royal Navy Air Service in 1915; of these, the Fairey Swordfish is indeed the most remarkable. The second prototype first flew in 1934. By the outbreak of World War 2, the aircraft was already obsolete, yet it served with great distinction throughout the whole of the war until final withdrawal to secondary duties in June 1945.The secret of the Swordfish's success was its superb handling qualities which made it particularly suitable for aircraft carrier borne operations and for dealing with problems of torpedo dive bombing attacks. A steep turn towards an attacking aircraft just before it came into range coupled with a high turning circle and the speed differential made it difficult for an assailant to bring its guns to bear for more than a few seconds; and its excellent handling qualities meant a lot to a new pilot attempting to land on a dark night in stormy seas.
