The Fairey Battle was first flown in 1936, as a promising air-frame for the RAF. The Battle was powered by a Rolls Royce Merlin engine, the engine that powered the Hurricane and Spitfire. Having a 3 man crew and being heavier, it was much slower than these fighters. It carried more bombs and could travel further than the bombers it replaced, however, by 1939 it was effectively obsolete. The Battle proved to be too slow and vulnerable, only armed with 2 .303 machine guns. In early action, Battle losses were often greater than 50%. By September, 1940, Battles were removed from front line service and used for training in both the UK and Canada. Battles were not built in Canada but 802 were shipped here and reassembled, some modified with turrets.
In the BCATP, the Battles served several roles including being used as target-tugs and at gunnery schools. The use of the aircraft type decreased as more advanced aircraft came on-line, however, some served until the end of the war.
In our museum workshop, volunteers have been working to create a replica of a Fairey Battle. You can see the progress by visiting us, the volunteers are always eager to share about this project.
Some Quick Facts
- Manufacturer: Fairey Aviation Company, UK
- Engines: Rolls Royce Merlin
- Empty Weight: 6,647 lbs (3,015 kg)
- Maximum Speed: 257 mph (414 kph)
- Cruising Speed: 210 mph (338 kph)
- Wingspan: 54 ft (16.5 m)
- Length: 42 ft 4 in (12.9 m)
- Service Ceiling: 25,000 ft ( 7,620 m)
- Range: 1,000 mi (1,609 km)
source of specs: Government of Canada, RCAF website https://www.canada.ca/en/air-force/services/aircraft/fairey-battle.htm
Commonwealth Air Training Plan Museum & RCAF WWII Memorial 