Royal Aircraft Factory B.E.2f

The original "Blériot Experimental 2" was designed in 1912 by Geoffrey de Havilland and was the first British aircraft designed specifically for military use. While Louis Blériot had been designing aircraft for some time, these Royal Aircraft Factory aircraft had no connection with his designs -- the naming convention was simply designed to indicate that they were general purpose two-seat tractor biplanes (with engines at the front).

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The first B.E.2s were delivered to the RFC in 1913, and by the outbreak of war in July 1914 they were in service with three squadrons. The design was inherently stable, and while this made them easy to fly and well-suited for observation and artillery spotting, it also made them virtually helpless against the more maneuverable German fighters (particularly the Fokker E.III). Additionally the back-to-front seating arrangement where the observer sat in the front, between the two wings and amongst the rigging, usually made it difficult for him to bring his guns to bear on any opponents.

The RAF B.E.2f was a variant of the B.E.2 series, and was a development of the earlier B.E.2c and B.E.2e models. The B.E.2f incorporated several refinements aimed at enhancing its performance and operational capability, such as wings of unequal span and a single pair of interplane struts. Some older B.E.2c aircraft (previously with wings of equal span) were converted to this new variant, and they were also designated the B.E.2f. These changes did little to enhance the combat effectiveness of the aircraft.

Despite the type's shortcomings, the B.E.2f played a crucial role in the development of aerial reconnaissance and bombing techniques. Its stable flight characteristics made it an excellent platform for aerial photography and reconnaissance missions, contributing valuable intelligence to the Allied war effort. However, as the war progressed and aerial combat became more intense, the B.E.2f's lack of speed and maneuverability led to it being outmatched by enemy fighters, resulting in high casualty rates among its crews and by the end of the war most B.E.2s were relegated to a training role only.

This aircraft (A1325) is one of 17 Royal Flying Corps veteran aircraft shipped to Norway in 1917 and is a genuine World War One survivor. The aircraft was restored by The Vintage Aviator Ltd, and made its maiden post-restoration flight in 2009.

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