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Airco DH. 5
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Airco DH. 5
Airco DH.5, built by Darracq Engineering, at Farnborough, 1917
The Royal Air Force Museum is Britain's only national museum dedicated wholly to aviation
Media ID 11446195
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This photograph captures the sleek and powerful form of the Airco DH.5, a single-seat biplane fighter that played a significant role in the Royal Flying Corps (RFC) and later the Royal Air Force (RAF) during the First World War. Built by Darracq Engineering at Farnborough in 1917, this aircraft was a marked improvement over its predecessors, featuring a more streamlined design and increased maneuverability. The Airco DH.5 was armed with two synchronised Vickers machine guns that were mounted in the fuselage, allowing the pilot to fire through the propeller arc without the risk of hitting it. With a top speed of 118 miles per hour, it was one of the fastest fighters of its time, making it a formidable opponent in the skies of the Western Front. This particular Airco DH.5 is shown in its original RFC livery, with the distinctive roundel and serial number clearly visible on the fuselage. The aircraft's wings are adorned with the distinctive red and blue stripes that identified it as a fighter, while the engine cowling is painted a dark green hue to reduce its visibility against the sky. The Airco DH.5 saw its first combat action in late 1917, and went on to become one of the most successful British fighters of the war. It served with numerous squadrons, including the famed No. 20 Squadron, which was credited with shooting down over 500 enemy aircraft during the conflict. Today, this historic aircraft is preserved in the collections of the RAF Museum, serving as a reminder of the courage and innovation that defined the First World War era. Its sleek lines and powerful presence continue to captivate visitors, making it a cherished symbol of aviation history.
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