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Vickers FB.5 (Gunbus)

1915 WORLD WAR 1

History

FB. The 5 (aka "Gunbus") is a biplane designed for reconnaissance roles. The system differs from the previous example in that this aircraft is the first armed reconnaissance aircraft. Just so one can argue FB. The 5 was the first "true" fighter jet in aviation.

The design proved reliable by 1913 standards, evolving from the flagship Type 18 "Destroyer" (later renamed EFB.1 "Experimental Biplane 1") to the FB. 5 and FB. 9 models.

FB. 5 Powered by a 100 hp rotary monobloc engine mounted in the rear of the nacelle. The system is operated by two people sitting side by side, but interestingly the pilot is at the center of the design and the observer is in the front (later aircraft have a traditional front engine design with the observer/tail gunner seat behind the pilot, who sits behind the front engine). Of course, this forward positioning of the observer is necessary for engine placement, but it also gives the individual a good idea of ??what's going on ahead of the aircraft, not to mention the large fire range of his single or twin machine guns.

Weapons Usually a single-drum 7.7mm Lewis machine gun, although dual 7.7mm machine guns have also been reported.

FB. 5 deployed to the 11th Squadron in France in mid-1915, effectively making them the world's first true "fighter squadron". The system was very successful and lasted long enough to be repelled by the advancing German fighter swarm. Facebook. 9 is an attempt to improve FB.

The 5 Series reaches a new standard with rounded wingtips and tailplanes and a more aerodynamic nose design. The production includes 309 FBs. 5 and FB. Nine models are produced in the UK and 99 others are produced under license in France.