Outward Bound

Becoming the one of the most successful of the RAF flying boats, the Supermarine Southampton was the aeroplane that sealed R.J.Mitchells reputation as a designer. It was developed from the Supermarine Swan, an experimental amphibian which made a big impression on the air ministry who at the time were looking to replace the ageing Felixstowe flying boat.

The impression was so good that the air ministry issued a specification, R.18/24, and immediately ordered six production aircraft right off the drawing board. This was a very unusual move and showed great confidence in the design.

The design incorporated new and innovative building practices and an eye for keeping things simple such as not integrating the lower planes into the hull so each could be independently worked on.

MK1 Southampton’s had wooden hulls but a move to Duralumin with the MK2 gave a substantial weight saving. It is stated that the weight saved was in the region of 500lb and the move to metal also avoided water soakage which could account for up to an additional 400lb in weight.

This weight saving allowed for extra fuel to be carried and so a substantial extension to the aircraft's range was gained. Metal wings were also later developed which in turn gave an additional 200lb weight saving.

It may have come across that I am a bit of a fanboy when it comes to the Southampton and I freely admit it. The MK 1 is a thing of beauty … that Hull!
It is almost organic in its lines, part fish and part bird. Go to the RAF Museum in Hendon, London and marvel at the persevered hull they have there. As a whole and in its construction it is a thing of beauty.

Of course, it doesn’t stop there either as there are two magnificent Napier Lion 5 engines, another absolute aero flavoured favourite of mine. Its enough to keep the doggies tail wagging indefinitely!