The Royal Aircraft Factory (R.A.F.) which had evolved from His Majesty’s Balloon Factory at Farnborough just before World War 1 was involved in the design and construction of the earliest military aircraft built in the UK. The best known product was the SE.5 and its derivatives. The SE.5 (74 built) first flew in 1916 powered by a 150hp(112kW) Hispano-Suiza. The type entered active service with the Royal Flying Corps in France in 1917. The main production version was the SE.5a which remained in service with other air forces until the mid 1920’s. The SE.5E was an American version. Two examples are thought to remain in airworthy condition.

G-EBIA           c/n 654/2404          United Kingdom

Single seat fighter first flown in 1917

Engine: 200hp(149kW) Hispano-Suiza V-8                                                                                       Length: 20’11"(6.37m)                                                                                          Height: 9’6"(2.89m)Wingspan: 26’7.5"(8.11m)                                                                                            No.built: 5125 Range: 240miles(386km)                                                                 Cruising speed: 100mph(160kmh) Empty weight: 1531lb(694kg)                                                 Maximum take-off weight: 2048lb(929kg)

R.A.F. SE.5a Side view 1/144 scale

Side view 1/108 scale

Side view 1/72 scale