Difference between revisions of "Swordfish Mk II"

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{{Specs-Card|code=swordfish_mk2}}
 
 
{{About
 
{{About
 
| about = gift British bomber '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
 
| about = gift British bomber '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
 
| usage = the regular version
 
| usage = the regular version
 
| link = Swordfish Mk I
 
| link = Swordfish Mk I
 +
}}
 +
{{Specs-Card
 +
|code=swordfish_mk2
 +
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg}}
 
}}
 
}}
  
 
== Description ==
 
== Description ==
 
<!-- ''In the description, the first part should be about the history of and the creation and combat usage of the aircraft, as well as its key features. In the second part, tell the reader about the aircraft in the game. Insert a screenshot of the vehicle, so that if the novice player does not remember the vehicle by name, he will immediately understand what kind of vehicle the article is talking about.'' -->
 
<!-- ''In the description, the first part should be about the history of and the creation and combat usage of the aircraft, as well as its key features. In the second part, tell the reader about the aircraft in the game. Insert a screenshot of the vehicle, so that if the novice player does not remember the vehicle by name, he will immediately understand what kind of vehicle the article is talking about.'' -->
−
[[File:GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg|420px|thumb|left]]
+
The Swordfish Mk.II is the successor of the Swordfish Mk.I, the primary carrier-based torpedo bomber of the Royal Air Force. Despite being extremely obsolete by the outbreak of the Second World war, the Swordfish remained a crucial asset to the Fleet Air Arm. The Swordfish Mk II was developed as the second iteration of the Swordfish and was first introduced in 1943. It was fitted with a new, metal lower wing section, allowing it to carry rockets on underwing racks.<ref name=":0" /> The Swordfish Mk II saw extensive service as a convoy escort, in the Atlantic and in the Arctic. During the course of the Second World War, the Swordfish distinguished itself as a highly reliable reconnaissance and torpedo bomber aircraft. It managed to sink several German submarines and was used to harass Axis convoys.
−
{{Break}}
+
 
−
The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is a premium gift rank {{Specs|rank}} British bomber {{Battle-rating}}. It was introduced during [[Update 1.97 "Viking Fury"]] as a reward for the [[wt:en/news/6703-event-winner-vehicles-for-the-victory-anniversary-en|Victory Day]] event.
+
It was introduced during [[Update 1.97 "Viking Fury"]] as a reward for the [[wt:en/news/6703-event-winner-vehicles-for-the-victory-anniversary-en|2020 "Victory Day"]] event. The Swordfish Mk II can be helpful for inexperienced players who want to learn how to effectively destroy ground targets using bombs and unguided rockets. This is due to its low speed and excellent manoeuvrability, which make it easier for new players to aim and target ground units accurately. The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is an improved version of the Fairey Swordfish biplane torpedo bomber. It is equipped with eight underwing pylons that allow it to carry the AP Mk I rocket and the famous RP-3 rocket.
  
 
== General info ==
 
== General info ==
 
=== Flight performance ===
 
=== Flight performance ===
 +
{{Specs-Avia-Flight}}
 
<!-- ''Describe how the aircraft behaves in the air. Speed, manoeuvrability, acceleration and allowable loads - these are the most important characteristics of the vehicle.'' -->
 
<!-- ''Describe how the aircraft behaves in the air. Speed, manoeuvrability, acceleration and allowable loads - these are the most important characteristics of the vehicle.'' -->
  
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=== Survivability and armour ===
 
=== Survivability and armour ===
 +
{{Specs-Avia-Armour}}
 
''Examine the survivability of the aircraft. Note how vulnerable the structure is and how secure the pilot is, whether the fuel tanks are armoured, etc. Describe the armour, if there is any, and also mention the vulnerability of other critical aircraft systems.''
 
''Examine the survivability of the aircraft. Note how vulnerable the structure is and how secure the pilot is, whether the fuel tanks are armoured, etc. Describe the armour, if there is any, and also mention the vulnerability of other critical aircraft systems.''
 +
 +
=== Modifications and economy ===
 +
{{Specs-Economy}}
  
 
== Armaments ==
 
== Armaments ==
 +
{{Specs-Avia-Armaments}}
 
=== Offensive armament ===
 
=== Offensive armament ===
 +
{{Specs-Avia-Offensive}}
 
<!-- ''Describe the offensive armament of the aircraft, if any. Describe how effective the cannons and machine guns are in a battle, and also what belts or drums are better to use. If there is no offensive weaponry, delete this subsection.'' -->
 
<!-- ''Describe the offensive armament of the aircraft, if any. Describe how effective the cannons and machine guns are in a battle, and also what belts or drums are better to use. If there is no offensive weaponry, delete this subsection.'' -->
 
{{main|Vickers E (7.7 mm)}}
 
{{main|Vickers E (7.7 mm)}}
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=== Suspended armament ===
 
=== Suspended armament ===
 +
{{Specs-Avia-Suspended}}
 
<!-- ''Describe the aircraft's suspended armament: additional cannons under the wings, bombs, rockets and torpedoes. This section is especially important for bombers and attackers. If there is no suspended weaponry remove this subsection.'' -->
 
<!-- ''Describe the aircraft's suspended armament: additional cannons under the wings, bombs, rockets and torpedoes. This section is especially important for bombers and attackers. If there is no suspended weaponry remove this subsection.'' -->
 
{{main|G.P. Mk.IV (250 lb)|G.P. Mk.IV (500 lb)|AP Mk I|RP-3|18 inch Mark XII (450 mm)}}
 
{{main|G.P. Mk.IV (250 lb)|G.P. Mk.IV (500 lb)|AP Mk I|RP-3|18 inch Mark XII (450 mm)}}
Line 98: Line 109:
  
 
=== Defensive armament ===
 
=== Defensive armament ===
 +
{{Specs-Avia-Defensive}}
 
<!-- ''Defensive armament with turret machine guns or cannons, crewed by gunners. Examine the number of gunners and what belts or drums are better to use. If defensive weaponry is not available, remove this subsection.'' -->
 
<!-- ''Defensive armament with turret machine guns or cannons, crewed by gunners. Examine the number of gunners and what belts or drums are better to use. If defensive weaponry is not available, remove this subsection.'' -->
 
{{main|Vickers K (7.7 mm)}}
 
{{main|Vickers K (7.7 mm)}}
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|-
 
|-
 
| Not controllable || Not controllable<br>Not auto controlled || Not controllable<br>Not auto controlled || Not controllable<br>Not auto controlled || Combined || Not controllable<br>1 gear || Not controllable
 
| Not controllable || Not controllable<br>Not auto controlled || Not controllable<br>Not auto controlled || Not controllable<br>Not auto controlled || Combined || Not controllable<br>1 gear || Not controllable
−
|-
 
−
|}
 
−
 
−
=== Modules ===
 
−
{| class="wikitable"
 
−
! Tier
 
−
! colspan="2" | Flight performance
 
−
! Survivability
 
−
! colspan="2" | Weaponry
 
−
|-
 
−
| I
 
−
| Fuselage repair
 
−
| Radiator
 
−
|
 
−
| Offensive 7 mm
 
−
| UC Mk.1
 
−
|-
 
−
| II
 
−
|
 
−
| Compressor
 
−
| Airframe
 
−
| New 7 mm MGs
 
−
| UC Mk.2
 
−
|-
 
−
| III
 
−
| Wings repair
 
−
| Engine
 
−
|
 
−
| Turret 7 mm
 
−
| FTC mk.II
 
−
|-
 
−
| IV
 
−
|
 
−
| Engine injection
 
−
| Cover
 
−
| New 7 mm MGs (turret)
 
−
| HRC mk.8
 
−
|-
 
−
! colspan="6" |This is a premium vehicle: all modifications are unlocked on purchase
 
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
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== History ==
 
== History ==
−
<!-- Describe the history of the creation and combat usage of the aircraft in more detail than in the introduction. If the historical reference turns out to be too long, take it to a separate article, taking a link to the article about the vehicle and adding a block "/History" (example: https://wiki.warthunder.com/(Vehicle-name)/History) and add a link to it here using the main template. Be sure to reference text and sources by using <ref></ref>, as well as adding them at the end of the article with <references />. This section may also include the vehicle's dev blog entry (if applicable) and the in-game encyclopedia description (under === In-game description ===, also if applicable). -->[[File:Rocket Swordfish.jpg|thumb|Three rocket-armed Fairey Swordfishes on a training flight, circa 1943.]]
+
<!-- ''Describe the history of the creation and combat usage of the aircraft in more detail than in the introduction. If the historical reference turns out to be too long, take it to a separate article, taking a link to the article about the vehicle and adding a block "/History" (example: <nowiki>https://wiki.warthunder.com/(Vehicle-name)/History</nowiki>) and add a link to it here using the <code>main</code> template. Be sure to reference text and sources by using <code><nowiki><ref></ref></nowiki></code>, as well as adding them at the end of the article with <code><nowiki><references /></nowiki></code>. This section may also include the vehicle's dev blog entry (if applicable) and the in-game encyclopedia description (under <code><nowiki>=== In-game description ===</nowiki></code>, also if applicable).'' -->
 +
[[File:Rocket Swordfish.jpg|thumb|Three rocket-armed Fairey Swordfishes on a training flight, circa 1943.]]
 
The Swordfish is the second variant of the legendary Fairey Swordfish, the primary carrier-based torpedo bomber of the Royal Air Force. Despite being extremely obsolete by the outbreak of the Second World war, the Swordfish remained a crucial asset to the Fleet Air Arm. It was involved in many notable engagements, including the hunt for ''Bismarck'' and attack on Taranto. The Mk II variant was introduced in 1943, and featured the ability to mount rockets on underwing brackets.<ref name=":0">Navy Wings. (2020)</ref>
 
The Swordfish is the second variant of the legendary Fairey Swordfish, the primary carrier-based torpedo bomber of the Royal Air Force. Despite being extremely obsolete by the outbreak of the Second World war, the Swordfish remained a crucial asset to the Fleet Air Arm. It was involved in many notable engagements, including the hunt for ''Bismarck'' and attack on Taranto. The Mk II variant was introduced in 1943, and featured the ability to mount rockets on underwing brackets.<ref name=":0">Navy Wings. (2020)</ref>
  
 
=== Design and development ===
 
=== Design and development ===
−
The Fairey Swordfish was developed as an advanced variant of the earlier Fairey III, with the working name of TSR (Torpedo Spotting Reconnaissance) 1. The TSR-1 model was unsuccessful, and so a second TSR-2 model was developed - this model would eventually enter service as the actual Swordfish.<ref name=":0" /> The aircraft first flew in 1934, and entered service with the Royal navy in 1936. However, it was already obsolete by the time it entered service, due to it’s biplane design and slow speed. Despite this, the aircraft still entered service in large numbers.
+
The Fairey Swordfish was developed as an advanced variant of the earlier Fairey III, with the working name of TSR (Torpedo Spotting Reconnaissance) 1. The TSR-1 model was unsuccessful, and so a second TSR-2 model was developed - this model would eventually enter service as the actual Swordfish.<ref name=":0" /> The aircraft first flew in 1934, and entered service with the Royal Navy in 1936. However, it was already obsolete by the time it entered service, due to its biplane design and slow speed. Despite this, the aircraft still entered service in large numbers.
  
−
The aircraft, being designed for operation on aircraft carrier decks, was equipped with folding wings.<ref name=":0" /> It was powered by the Bristol Pegasus, a 9-cylinder radial that was state-of-the-art when the Swordfish entered service. Despite the powerful engine, the Swordfish could only reach 90 knots (166 km/h) unloaded.<ref name=":0" /> The crew of three sat in an open cockpit that provided minimal protection against both flak and weather. The aircraft was armed with two rifle-calibre guns (one firing forward and one firing backwards), and could carry up to 1500 lbs of bombs, mines, torpedoes or rockets.<ref name=":0" />
+
The aircraft, being designed for operation on aircraft carrier decks, was equipped with folding wings.<ref name=":0" /> It was powered by the Bristol Pegasus, a 9-cylinder radial that was state-of-the-art when the Swordfish entered service. Despite the powerful engine, the Swordfish could only reach 90 knots (166 km/h) unloaded.<ref name=":0" /> The crew of three sat in an open cockpit that provided minimal protection against both flak and weather. The aircraft was armed with two rifle-calibre guns (one firing forward and one firing backwards), and could carry up to 1,500 lbs of bombs, mines, torpedoes or rockets.<ref name=":0" />
  
 
=== Operational history ===
 
=== Operational history ===
−
 The Swordfish, despite being extremely obsolete by the start of the Second World War, engaged in a multitude of conflicts. The aircraft played a key role in the Attack on Taranto in November of 1940, which crippled the Italian fleet and would later be used by the Japanese as a blueprint for Pearl Harbour.<ref name=":0" /> Swordfishes were also responsible for crippling the battleship ''Bismarck'', which was later sunk by British surface ships. During its time with the Fleet Air Arm, the Swordfish was affectionately nicknamed the ‘Stringbag’, a reference to the shopping bags used at the time; this referenced the Swordfish’s ability to carry almost any ordnance that the FAA could fit on it.<ref name=":0" />
+
The Swordfish, despite being extremely obsolete by the start of the Second World War, engaged in a multitude of conflicts. The aircraft played a key role in the Attack on Taranto in November of 1940, which crippled the Italian fleet and would later be used by the Japanese as a blueprint for Pearl Harbour.<ref name=":0" /> Swordfishes were also responsible for crippling the battleship ''Bismarck'', which was later sunk by British surface ships. During its time with the Fleet Air Arm, the Swordfish was affectionately nicknamed the 'Stringbag', a reference to the shopping bags used at the time; this referenced the Swordfish's ability to carry almost any ordnance that the FAA could fit on it.<ref name=":0" />
  
 
The Swordfish Mk II was developed as the second Swordfish iteration and was first introduced in 1943. It was fitted with a new, metal lower wing section, allowing it to carry rockets on underwing racks.<ref name=":0" /> The Swordfish Mk II saw extensive service as a convoy escort, in the Atlantic and in the Arctic. During the course of the Second World War, the Swordfish distinguished itself as a highly reliable reconnaissance and torpedo bomber aircraft. The aircraft sank 21 submarines, numerous surface ships, and was responsible for the highest tonnage of Axis shipping destroyed by a single Allied aircraft type.<ref name=":0" /> Several Swordfishes still exist today, including a flight-capable Swordfish Mk II operated by Navy Wings.<ref name=":0" />
 
The Swordfish Mk II was developed as the second Swordfish iteration and was first introduced in 1943. It was fitted with a new, metal lower wing section, allowing it to carry rockets on underwing racks.<ref name=":0" /> The Swordfish Mk II saw extensive service as a convoy escort, in the Atlantic and in the Arctic. During the course of the Second World War, the Swordfish distinguished itself as a highly reliable reconnaissance and torpedo bomber aircraft. The aircraft sank 21 submarines, numerous surface ships, and was responsible for the highest tonnage of Axis shipping destroyed by a single Allied aircraft type.<ref name=":0" /> Several Swordfishes still exist today, including a flight-capable Swordfish Mk II operated by Navy Wings.<ref name=":0" />
  
 
== Media ==
 
== Media ==
−
''Excellent additions to the article would be video guides, screenshots from the game, and photos.''
+
<!-- ''Excellent additions to the article would be video guides, screenshots from the game, and photos.'' -->
 +
 
 +
;Skins
 +
 
 +
* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=swordfish_mk2 Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]
  
 
== See also ==
 
== See also ==
Line 216: Line 194:
  
 
== External links ==
 
== External links ==
−
<!-- Paste links to sources and external resources, such as:
+
<!-- ''Paste links to sources and external resources, such as:''
 +
* ''topic on the official game forum;''
 +
* ''other literature.'' -->
  
−
topic on the official game forum;
 
−
encyclopedia page on the aircraft;
 
−
other literature. -->
 
 
=== References ===
 
=== References ===
 +
 +
;Citations
 +
<references />
 +
 +
;Bibliography
  
 
* Navy Wings. (2020, November 05). Swordfish MkII LS326. Retrieved November 28, 2020, from <nowiki>https://navywings.org.uk/portfolio/swordfish-ls326/</nowiki>
 
* Navy Wings. (2020, November 05). Swordfish MkII LS326. Retrieved November 28, 2020, from <nowiki>https://navywings.org.uk/portfolio/swordfish-ls326/</nowiki>

Latest revision as of 13:50, 28 November 2023

Rank VI USSR | Premium | Golden Eagles
Su-25K Pack
This page is about the gift British bomber Swordfish Mk II. For the regular version, see Swordfish Mk I.
Swordfish Mk II
swordfish_mk2.png
GarageImage Swordfish Mk II.jpg
Swordfish Mk II
Britain flag.png Britain
I Rank
Battle rating:
AB RB SB
1.0 1.0 1.0
Class:
PREMIUM
Purchase:Bundle or Gift
Show in game

Description

The Swordfish Mk.II is the successor of the Swordfish Mk.I, the primary carrier-based torpedo bomber of the Royal Air Force. Despite being extremely obsolete by the outbreak of the Second World war, the Swordfish remained a crucial asset to the Fleet Air Arm. The Swordfish Mk II was developed as the second iteration of the Swordfish and was first introduced in 1943. It was fitted with a new, metal lower wing section, allowing it to carry rockets on underwing racks.[1] The Swordfish Mk II saw extensive service as a convoy escort, in the Atlantic and in the Arctic. During the course of the Second World War, the Swordfish distinguished itself as a highly reliable reconnaissance and torpedo bomber aircraft. It managed to sink several German submarines and was used to harass Axis convoys.

It was introduced during Update 1.97 "Viking Fury" as a reward for the 2020 "Victory Day" event. The Swordfish Mk II can be helpful for inexperienced players who want to learn how to effectively destroy ground targets using bombs and unguided rockets. This is due to its low speed and excellent manoeuvrability, which make it easier for new players to aim and target ground units accurately. The Swordfish Mk II is an improved version of the Fairey Swordfish biplane torpedo bomber. It is equipped with eight underwing pylons that allow it to carry the AP Mk I rocket and the famous RP-3 rocket.

General info

Flight performance

Arrestor gear
Accelerates braking by grabbing the brake cable on the deck of the aircraft carrier
Max speed
at 1 800 m265 km/h
Turn time15 s
Max altitude5 200 m
EngineBristol Pegasus 30
TypeRadial
Cooling systemAir
Take-off weight4 t

While the Swordfish Mk II boasts a good stall speed, performing sharp turns will bleed your speed at an alarming rate. Under no circumstances should you attempt a steeply banked turn near the ground as you will lose a lot of altitude in the process. Instead, perform a shallow banked turn with the assistance of the rudder.

Characteristics Max Speed
(km/h at 1,800 m) 		Max altitude
(metres) 		Turn time
(seconds) 		Rate of climb
(metres/second) 		Take-off run
(metres)
AB RB AB RB AB RB
Stock 247 240 5200 16.1 17.6 1.2 1.2 190
Upgraded 285 265 14.0 15.0 7.3 3.9

Details

Features
Combat flaps Take-off flaps Landing flaps Air brakes Arrestor gear
X X ✓ X ✓
Limits
Wings (km/h) Gear (km/h) Flaps (km/h) Max Static G
Combat Take-off Landing + -
390 400 N/A N/A 400 ~6 ~4
Optimal velocities (km/h)
Ailerons Rudder Elevators Radiator
< 200 < 220 < 260 > 310

Survivability and armour

Crew2 people
Speed of destruction
Structural390 km/h
Gear400 km/h

Examine the survivability of the aircraft. Note how vulnerable the structure is and how secure the pilot is, whether the fuel tanks are armoured, etc. Describe the armour, if there is any, and also mention the vulnerability of other critical aircraft systems.

Modifications and economy

Repair cost
AB157 Sl icon.png
RB193 Sl icon.png
SB270 Sl icon.png
Crew training450 Sl icon.png
Experts3 000 Sl icon.png
Aces45 Ge icon.png
Research Aces220 000 Rp icon.png
Reward for battleAB / RB / SB
Talisman.png 2 × 20 / 50 / 90 % Sl icon.png
Talisman.png 2 × 100 / 100 / 100 % Rp icon.png
Modifications
Flight performance Survivability Weaponry
Mods aerodinamic fuse.png
Fuselage repair
Mods radiator.png
Radiator
Mods armor frame.png
Airframe
Mods compressor.png
Compressor
Mods aerodinamic wing.png
Wings repair
Mods new engine.png
Engine
Mods armor cover.png
Cover
Mods metanol.png
Engine injection
Mods engine extinguisher.png
EFS
Mods ammo.png
type89_belt_pack
Mod arrow 0.png
Mods pilon bomb.png
UC Mk.1
Mod arrow 0.png
Mods weapon.png
type97_new_gun
Mods pilon bomb.png
UC Mk.2
Mod arrow 0.png
Mods ammo.png
bmg303_turret_belt_pack
Mod arrow 0.png
Mods pilon torpedo.png
FTC mk.II
Mod arrow 0.png
Mods turret gun.png
vikkersK_turret_new_gun
Mods pilon rocket.png
HRC mk.8

Armaments

Offensive armament

Main article: Vickers E (7.7 mm)

The Swordfish Mk II is armed with:

  • 1 x 7.7 mm Vickers E machine gun, nose-mounted (600 rpg)

Suspended armament

Main articles: G.P. Mk.IV (250 lb), G.P. Mk.IV (500 lb), AP Mk I, RP-3, 18 inch Mark XII (450 mm)

The Swordfish Mk II can be outfitted with the following ordnance:

  • 4 x 250 lb G.P. Mk.IV bombs (1,000 lb total)
  • 6 x 250 lb G.P. Mk.IV bombs (1,500 lb total)
  • 2 x 500 lb G.P. Mk.IV bombs + 2 x 250 lb G.P. Mk.IV bombs (1,500 lb total)
  • 1 x 450 mm 18 inch Mark XII torpedo
  • 8 x AP Mk I rockets
  • 8 x RP-3 rockets

Defensive armament

Main article: Vickers K (7.7 mm)

The Swordfish Mk II is defended by:

  • 1 x 7.7 mm Vickers K machine gun, dorsal turret (600 rpg)

Usage in battles

This aircraft will ultimately be outperformed by any aircraft it faces, so its key strength is the payload. Most noticeably, the RP-3 rockets which can be fired independently of each other is sufficient to attack light pillboxes and light to medium tanks, even at higher tiers!

In air RB, try to avoid getting into air combat as your weaponry is insufficient. When it comes to defending yourself, you really don't have much of a choice. Your machine guns are inadequate and most players would shrug off your spray. The recommendation is to always have a teammate keeping an eye on you as you do your duties

In Ground RB, spawn only if you think that the enemy does not have anti-aircraft vehicles in battle since your slow speed makes it easy for the enemy to shoot you down!

In Naval battles, you should only engage naval targets when you think the target is distracted (for example, while they're attacking an allied ship).

Manual Engine Control

MEC elements
Mixer Pitch Radiator Supercharger Turbocharger
Oil Water Type
Not controllable Not controllable
Not auto controlled 		Not controllable
Not auto controlled 		Not controllable
Not auto controlled 		Combined Not controllable
1 gear 		Not controllable

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Allows the use of WEP, unlike the Mk I, as well as a larger oil cooler
  • Very versatile with multiple payload options
  • Excellent stall speed of 96 km/h
  • Surprisingly good turning radius for a bomber
  • Rockets can be fired off independently, starting on the left wing

Cons:

  • Engine has less horsepower than the Mk I - very slow without WEP!
  • Poorer climb rate than the Mk I
  • Clumsier/bulkier than the Mk I
  • Sharp turns bleeds speed at an alarming rate
  • Inadequate defence weaponry
  • Large minimum fuel load (>40 minutes)

History

Three rocket-armed Fairey Swordfishes on a training flight, circa 1943.

The Swordfish is the second variant of the legendary Fairey Swordfish, the primary carrier-based torpedo bomber of the Royal Air Force. Despite being extremely obsolete by the outbreak of the Second World war, the Swordfish remained a crucial asset to the Fleet Air Arm. It was involved in many notable engagements, including the hunt for Bismarck and attack on Taranto. The Mk II variant was introduced in 1943, and featured the ability to mount rockets on underwing brackets.[1]

Design and development

The Fairey Swordfish was developed as an advanced variant of the earlier Fairey III, with the working name of TSR (Torpedo Spotting Reconnaissance) 1. The TSR-1 model was unsuccessful, and so a second TSR-2 model was developed - this model would eventually enter service as the actual Swordfish.[1] The aircraft first flew in 1934, and entered service with the Royal Navy in 1936. However, it was already obsolete by the time it entered service, due to its biplane design and slow speed. Despite this, the aircraft still entered service in large numbers.

The aircraft, being designed for operation on aircraft carrier decks, was equipped with folding wings.[1] It was powered by the Bristol Pegasus, a 9-cylinder radial that was state-of-the-art when the Swordfish entered service. Despite the powerful engine, the Swordfish could only reach 90 knots (166 km/h) unloaded.[1] The crew of three sat in an open cockpit that provided minimal protection against both flak and weather. The aircraft was armed with two rifle-calibre guns (one firing forward and one firing backwards), and could carry up to 1,500 lbs of bombs, mines, torpedoes or rockets.[1]

Operational history

The Swordfish, despite being extremely obsolete by the start of the Second World War, engaged in a multitude of conflicts. The aircraft played a key role in the Attack on Taranto in November of 1940, which crippled the Italian fleet and would later be used by the Japanese as a blueprint for Pearl Harbour.[1] Swordfishes were also responsible for crippling the battleship Bismarck, which was later sunk by British surface ships. During its time with the Fleet Air Arm, the Swordfish was affectionately nicknamed the 'Stringbag', a reference to the shopping bags used at the time; this referenced the Swordfish's ability to carry almost any ordnance that the FAA could fit on it.[1]

The Swordfish Mk II was developed as the second Swordfish iteration and was first introduced in 1943. It was fitted with a new, metal lower wing section, allowing it to carry rockets on underwing racks.[1] The Swordfish Mk II saw extensive service as a convoy escort, in the Atlantic and in the Arctic. During the course of the Second World War, the Swordfish distinguished itself as a highly reliable reconnaissance and torpedo bomber aircraft. The aircraft sank 21 submarines, numerous surface ships, and was responsible for the highest tonnage of Axis shipping destroyed by a single Allied aircraft type.[1] Several Swordfishes still exist today, including a flight-capable Swordfish Mk II operated by Navy Wings.[1]

Media

Skins

See also

Links to the articles on the War Thunder Wiki that you think will be useful for the reader, for example:

  • reference to the series of the aircraft;
  • links to approximate analogues of other nations and research trees.

External links

References

Citations
  1. ↑ 1.00 1.01 1.02 1.03 1.04 1.05 1.06 1.07 1.08 1.09 1.10 Navy Wings. (2020)
Bibliography
  • Navy Wings. (2020, November 05). Swordfish MkII LS326. Retrieved November 28, 2020, from https://navywings.org.uk/portfolio/swordfish-ls326/


Fairey Aviation Company, Limited
Fighters  Firefly F Mk I · Firefly FR Mk V
Bombers  Swordfish Mk I · Swordfish Mk II
Export  ◘Firefly F.Mk.IV

Britain bombers
Torpedo  Swordfish Mk I · Swordfish Mk II · ▄Avenger Mk II
Dive  V-156-B1
Hydroplanes  ▄Catalina Mk IIIa · Sunderland Mk IIIa · Sunderland Mk V
Light  Blenheim Mk IV · Beaufort Mk VIII · ▄Hudson Mk V · Brigand B 1
Based on A20  ▄Havoc Mk I · ▄Boston Mk I · ▄DB-7
Hampden  Hampden Mk I · Hampden TB Mk I
Wellington  Wellington Mk Ic · Wellington Mk Ic/L · Wellington Mk III · Wellington Mk X
Halifax  Halifax B Mk IIIa
Stirling  Stirling B Mk I · Stirling B Mk III
Lancaster  Lancaster B Mk I · Lancaster B Mk III
Lincoln  Lincoln B Mk II
Shackleton  Shackleton MR.Mk.2

Britain premium aircraft
Fighters  Tuck's Gladiator Mk II · ▄Boomerang Mk I · ▄Boomerang Mk II · ▄D.520
  ▄Martlet Mk IV · ▄Corsair F Mk II · ▄Hellcat Mk II · ▄Thunderbolt Mk.1 · ▄Mustang Mk IA
  Hurricane Mk.I/L FAA M · Spitfire Mk.IIa Venture I · Spitfire F Mk IXc · Plagis' Spitfire LF Mk IXc · Spitfire F Mk XIVc · Prendergast's Spitfire FR Mk XIVe
  Typhoon Mk Ib · MB.5
Twin-engine fighters  Hornet Mk.I · Whirlwind P.9
Jet fighters  Attacker FB.2 · Hunter FGA.9 · Lightning F.53 · Meteor F Mk.8 Reaper · Sea Vixen F.A.W. Mk.2 · F-4J(UK) Phantom II · ▄MiG-21 Bison
Strike aircraft  ▄Wirraway · Beaufighter Mk I (40-mm) · Wyvern S4
  Harrier GR.1 · Strikemaster Mk.88
Bombers  ▄Avenger Mk II · ▄Boston Mk I · ▄Catalina Mk IIIa · ▄DB-7 · ▄Havoc Mk I · ▄Hudson Mk V · Swordfish Mk II

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