SIAI S.8
| Company type | Manufacturer |
|---|---|
| Industry | Aerospace |
| Founded | 1915 |
| Headquarters | Italy |
Key people | Raffaele Conflenti (lead designer) |
Design and development
Established in 1915, the Societa Idrovolanti Alta Italia (SIAI) initially focused on manufacturing French flying boats under license. The company appointed Raffaele Conflenti as its lead designer, whose inaugural project was the SIAI S.8. This aircraft was a two-seat biplane flying boat with equal-span wings, making its maiden flight in 1917. The Royal Italian Navy placed an order for 800 units of the S.8, which were to be produced both by SIAI and various subcontractors. However, production ceased after 172 units had been delivered due to the conclusion of the war. Early versions were equipped with an Isotta Fraschini V4B engine, while later models featured a more powerful 220 hp (164 kW) Hispano-Suiza 44 engine.
Operational history
The SIAI S.8 served as the primary equipment for five squadrons within the Regia Marina. By the year 1920, only 63 of these aircraft remained, predominantly held in reserve storage.
Operators
Specifications (S.8)
References
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