Description: The E-1 carried two 7.92 mm MG 17s above the engine and two more in the wings. The E-1B became the first operational Bf 109 fighter bomber. These were fitted with either one central bomb rack, carrying one 250 kg bomb, or two under-wing bomb racks, each carrying a 50 kg bomb. The E-3 was armed with the two MG 17s above the engine and one MG FF cannon in each wing. The E-3 was replaced by the E-4 (with many airframes being upgraded to E-4 standards starting at the beginning of the Battle of Britain) which was different in some small details, most notably by using the modified 20 mm MG-FF/M wing cannon and having improved head armour for the pilot.
Description: Following the experiences of the E-4 the E-7 was the next major production variant, entering service and seeing combat at the end of August 1940. One of the limitations of the earlier Bf 109E interceptor fighter was the short range of 660 km (410 miles).
Ref: AIR06102
Created: 07/06/2011
SUPERMARINE SEAFIRE XVII
Description: The Mk XVII was the first of the Seafire variants to feature a cut-down rear fuselage and distinctive drop-style canopy, distinguishing it from previous marks of Seafire. Due to reinforcements in the wings, a heavier weapon load was also able to be carried, with both fuel tanks and rockets becoming an option for under the wings. The Mk XVII also benefitted from a reinforced main undercarriage. This went some way towards taming the deck behaviour of the Mk XV, reducing the likelyhood of the propeller tips hitting the deck during an arrested landing.
Flying on frontline duties until the early 1950s, it was then relegated to training roles.
Ref: AM4802
Created: 11/09/2010
DE HAVILLAND DH.60G "Gipsy Moth"
Description: The de Havilland DH 60 Moth was a 1920s British two-seat touring and training aircraft that was developed into a series of aircraft by the de Havilland Aircraft Company.