DE HAVILLAND HORNET

DE HAVILLAND DH.103 HORNET - Design of the DH.103 single-seat twin-engined fighter was undertaken at Hatfield as a private venture during 1942 and prototypes were ordered in June 1943 to Specification F.I2/43. Intended for very long range operation in the South Pacific area, the DH.103 was powered by 2,030 hp Merlin 130/131 (handed) engines and armed with four 20-mm can-non. First of two prototypes (unarmed) flown July 28, 1944 (initially with two Merlin 130s); second prototype carried armament and 200-Imp gal (910-1) underwing drop tanks. Initial production flight February 1, 1945, but quantity deliveries (to equip No 64 Sqn initially) too late for combat use.

Max speed, 472 mph (759 km/h) at 22,000 ft (6,706 m) and 438 mph (705 km/h) at 10,000ft (3,050 m). Max climb, 4,000 ft/min (20.32 m/sec). Service ceiling, 37,500 ft (11,430 m). Range (with 100-Imp gal/455-1 drop tanks), 1,500 mis (2,414 km). Range (with 200-Imp gal/910-1) drop tanks) 2,500 mis (4,023 km) at 340 mph (547 km/h) at 30,000ft (9,150 m). Empty weight, 12,820 Ib (5,820 kg). Gross weight, 17,700 Ib (8,036 kg). Span, 45 ft 0 in (13.72 m). Length, 36ft 8 in (11.17 m). Wing area, 361 sqft (33.54 m2).

De Havilland Sea Hornet: Two Hornet Is converted during 1944-45 to Specification N.5/44 as carrier-based long-range fighter proto-types for FAA use. First flown April 19, 1945. Third prototype, flown post-war, followed by production Sea Hornet F Mk 20sandNFMk21s.