VICKERS VALENTIA I
- Twin-engined
troop and cargo transport, developed during 1933 as an enhanced derivative
of the Victoria to Specification 25/33. Production of 28 to Specification
30/34 (Vickers Type 264) supplemented by conversion of 54 Victorias (Type
278). Powered by two 650 hp Bristol Pegasus IIL3 engines, the Vickers Valentia
entered service with No 216 Sqn in the Middle East in September 1935 and
was later used by No 70 Sqn and (with Pegasus IIM3 engines) by No 31 Sqn
in India. Sixty Vickers Valentias were on RAF strength in September 1939 and were
much used in North Africa until 1942, and with the Iraq and Persia Communications
Flight until May 1944. The Vickers Valentia could carry up to 2,200 Ib (998 kg)
of bombs on wing racks and was sometimes used in the bombing role. Eleven
Vickers Valentias transferred to SAAF in 1940.
Max speed, 120 mph (193 kmlh) at 5,000 ft (1,525 m). Gross weight, 19,500
Ib (8,845 kg). Span, 87 ft 4 in (26.62 m). Length, 59 ft 6 in (18.13m).
