SARO LERWICK -
The Saro S.36 Lerwick was a twin-engined GR flying-boat to meet Specification
R. 1/36, powered by two 1,375 hp Bristol Hercules IM (first four aircraft),
II or F/. Crew of six/seven, and armament of seven 0.303-in (7.7-mm) machine-guns
in nose, dorsal and tail Frazer Nash powered turrets; 2,000 Ib (907 kg)
of bombs or depth charges. First of 21 production aircraft flown early
November 1938, with first three assigned to prototype development and
used to test a number of tail configurations and other modifications to
overcome early shortcomings. Deliveries to No 209 Sqn began December 1939
but SARO Lerwicks unsatisfactory and little used. Transferred to No 4 (Coastal)
OCU by April 1941, but eight used briefly in summer of 1942 by No 422
(Canadian) Sqn pending arrival of Sunder-lands. All aircraft retired by
early 1943.
Max speed, 215 mph (346 kmlh).
Cruising speed, 165 mph (266 kmlh). Service ceiling, 15,000 ft (4,572
m). Range, 1,500 mis (2,414 km). Gross weight, 33,200 Ib (15,060 kg).
Span, 80 ft 10 in (24.64 m). Length, 63 ft 7'12 in (19.40 m). Wing area,
845 sq ft (78.5m2).
