Avro Antelope
| Industry | Aerospace |
|---|---|
| Founded | 1910 |
| Founder | Alliott Verdon Roe |
| Headquarters | Manchester , United Kingdom |
The Avro 604 Antelope was a British light bomber developed in the late 1920s to satisfy the Royal Air Force’s need for a light bomber. It competed against the Hawker Hart and the Fairey Fox II, but ultimately was not selected, with the Hart being chosen instead.
Design and development
The Avro 604 Antelope was created in response to Air Ministry Specification 12/26, which called for a single-engine, lightweight, high-speed day bomber.[1] The Air Ministry commissioned one prototype, which made its maiden flight in July 1928,[2] powered by a 480 hp (360 kW) Rolls-Royce F.XIB engine, later known as the Kestrel.
This prototype featured a single-bay biplane design constructed entirely from metal. It underwent evaluation at the Aeroplane and Armament Experimental Establishment (A & AEE) located at Martlesham Heath, where it was tested alongside the Hawker Hart and Fairey Fox II. Although it met or exceeded the specification’s performance goals, it suffered from poor handling at low speeds and unfavourable spinning behaviour. Maintenance considerations also influenced the decision, with the Hart being preferred due to easier upkeep.[2]
Operational history
Following its rejection for frontline service, the Antelope prototype was modified with dual controls and employed by the Royal Aircraft Establishment as a test platform for engines and propellers. It remained in this role until September 1933.[1]
Operators
Specifications (Antelope)
See also
References
External links
- Avro Antelope – British Aircraft Directory