Number 10: Sopwith Biplane F.1 "Camel"
The Camel proves to be a God-send for the Allies in 1917.
by Staff Writer
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Synopsis: The highly maneuverable Sopwith Camel was the Allied star of the First World War. The twin-gun killing machine made short work of German fighters and bombers (only in the most capable of hands mind you) and was known for its inherent ability to "weed out" less-than-capable pilots due to its unforgiving flight characteristics (notably the forward center of gravity coupled with the engine's natural torque).
The biplane had a natural propensity to favor the right, helping pilot's making quick-banking and rolling maneuvers against unsuspecting enemies - giving him a substantial edge in the dogfights over France.
Pros: Responsive turns assisted by the naturally-produced engine torque; forward center of gravity for lesser agility resistance; wood construction generally means its a sponge for punishment by bullets; light alloy skinning near engine for added protection of important components.
Notoriety: Credited with an unprecedented 1,300 to 3,000 aircraft kills (sources vary the count) during The Great War. This aircraft type was also the chosen air mount of aces such as Canadian Albert Ball who was credited with the downing of Manfred von Richthofen - aka "The Red Baron".
Total Production: 5,490
Operators: Australia, Belgium, Canada, Estonia, Greece, Latvia, Netherlands, Poland, Sweden, United Kingdom and United States.
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