#AM317-BR

With 20% less wing span, it is not surprising that this airplane became regarded as a "pup" of the earlier aircraft. The nickname Pup, given by air and ground crews, has long outlived its official designation, Sopwith Admiralty Type 9901, and the name Sopwith Pup is well endorsed in British aviation history. The fact that with only 80-hp this highly maneuverable biplane was a very effective fighter speaks volumes for its design and construction. The Pup entered service with both the RAF and RNAS in 1916, and its reputation was quickly established, either as a gem to fly or a fighter to be avoided, according to whether one was an Allied or enemy pilot. In fact, this airplane was more than a gem, for with its effective forward-firing synchronized machine gun, and the ability, at the time of its introduction, to remain maneuverable and responsive at a greater height than any contemporary fighter plane, this airplane was also a killer. It was in great demand, and production totaled 1,770 planes. In RNAS service this airplane played a significant pioneering role in the operation of aircraft from ships; one Pup flown by Squadron Commander E. H. Dunning achieved the first landing on a ship under way at sea when he touched down on the deck of the aircraft-carrier HMS Furious on August 2, 1917. The Sopwith Pup was powered by one 80-hp Le Rhone rotary piston engine, giving the airplane a maximum speed of 112 mph at sea level, service ceiling of 17,500 feet, and endurance of 3 hours. Armament on the biplane was one forward-firing synchronized 7.7-mm (303-caliber) Vickers machine gun, plus up to four 25-lb. bombs on external racks.

All airplane models are Hand Carved, Hand Painted Mahogany and come fully assembled with removable desk stand.

Dimensions: Wingspan, 16 1/2" -Length, 11 3/4" -Scale, 1/20

AM317-AR or BR - Air Corps Price $179.95

• Check our ordering information page for UPS shipping charges •

Order Toll Free 800-252-0031

This department is part of the Wonders Never Cease / Clem & Company store