SARO A.37
- After designing the S.38 four-engined patrol flying-boat to Specification
R.5/39, Saro built, as a private venture, a half-scale model as the SARO
A.37, often called the Shrimp.
The R.5/39 programme did not go ahead, but the SARO A.37 was completed
in time to make its first flight at Cowes in October 1939, with registration
G-AFZS. Powered by four 85 hp Pobjoy Niagara III engines, it was later
modified to have a single fin and rudder, and other features representative
of the Shetland flying-boat jointly developed by Shorts and Saro. In this
guise, it acquired the serial TK580, and was tested from early 1944 until
after the war had ended.
Max speed, 130 mph (209 kmlh).
Gross weight, 6,250 Ib (2,835 kg). Span, 50ft 0 in (15.24 m). Length,
42ft 3'U in (12.88 m)
