HAWKER HIND
- Improved Hawker Hart purchased by
RAF 1935-1938 as interim bomber, defined by Specification G.7/34 and first
flown on September 12, 1934. Production of 427, of which some 360 on strength
September 1939, plus eight transferred to Indian Air Force and 15 to Afghan
Air Force, which also bought eight directly from Hawker. Starting early
1940, RAF transferred total of 131 to SAAF and 78 to RNZAF (of which 15
lost en route), plus four as instructional airframes to RCAF. Final 20
built as Hawker Hind Trainers, plus 124 converted to similar standard
pre-war by GAL at Hanworth and other conversions by Hawker and RAF. Wartime
use by" RAF for training, glider-towing (Hotspur), target-towing
and 'hack' duties until 1943. In New Zealand, used by FTS at Ohakea 1940-41,
and about 18 for army co-operation in 1942 by Nos 20 and 21 Sqns. In South
Africa, Hawker Hinds supplemented Hawker Harts in training and utility
roles. Original Hawker Hind bombers used 640 hp R-R Kestrel V, derated
to 599 hp Kestrel VDR in trainers (data below).
Max speed, 185.5 mph (298.5
kmlh) at 15,500ft (4,724 m). Time to 10,000ft (3,050 m), 8.4 min. Service
ceiling, 24,450 ft (7,452 m). Empty weight, 3,195 Ib (1,450 kg). Loaded
weight, 4,657 Ib (2,112 kg). Span, 37 ft 3 in (11.35 m). Length, 29 ft
3 in (8.9 m). Wing area, 348 sqft (32.33 m2).
