SUPERMARINE SEA OTTER
- A developed version of the Supermarine
Walrus, evolved early-1936 to meet OR.33 for a spotting amphibian
to operate from cruiser/battleship catapults or from the decks of aircraft
carriers. Two prototypes (Supermarine Type 309) ordered April 1936 to
conform to Specification 5/36, which called for a Bristol Pegasus engine
to be used, in tractor configuration. With a crew of three, the Type 309
lacked the bow gun of the Walrus and had twin guns in the dorsal cockpit.
First prototype K8854 flew on September 23, 1938, with a 745 hp Bristol
Perseus XI engine and was re-engined with a 920 hp Bristol Mercury XX
in 1940; a 965 hp Mercury 30 was fitted in January 1941 and latter engine
specified for production aircraft ordered January 1942. Second prototype
destroyed by enemy action at Woolston in September 1940, possibly before
being flown.
Supermarine Sea Otter ABR Mk I: Initial production version, 'amphibian boat reconnaissance',
built by Saro and first flown January 1943 at Cowes. First contract for
250, of which nine (or more) completed as Mk II. Entered service early
1944 for ASR and communications duties in FAA.
Supermarine Sea Otter ASR Mk II: Second contract for 100 placed with Saro in September
1943, of which only 41 built, plus nine (or more) from previous contract
for Mk Is. Dedicated and equipped for ASR role, with armament removed.
Delivered from May 1945. Max speed, 163 mph (262 kmlh) at 4,500 ft (1,371
m). Time to 5,000ft (1,525 m), 7 min. Rate of climb, 870 ft/min (4.4 ml
sec). Service ceiling, 17,000 ft (5,181 m). Range, 690 mis (1,110 km).
Empty weight, 6,805 Ib (3,086 kg). Gross weight, 10,000 Ib (4,536 kg).
Span, 46ft 0 in (14m). Length, 39ft Iff I4 in (12.2 m). Wing area, 610
sqft (56.7 m2).
