Bristol Blenheim I
Bristol · United Kingdom · first flew 1935 · bomber
The Bristol Blenheim I was a twin-engined light bomber that represented a major leap forward in RAF capability when introduced in 1937, initially faster than most contemporary fighters. It was derived from the Bristol Type 142 civil transport.
Recognition (WEFT)
| W — Wings | Mid-mounted, tapered |
|---|---|
| E — Engines | 2 × piston, wing-mounted |
| F — Fuselage | Short stubby engine nacelles close to the fuselage |
| T — Tail | Conventional |
WEFT is AircraftIQ's four-point recognition method — how it works.
Spot it by:
- Twin-engined mid-wing monoplane with retractable undercarriage
- Distinctive glazed nose section
- Short stubby engine nacelles close to the fuselage
Distinguished from the Mk IV by its short, rounded nose glazing; the twin Bristol Mercury radials in neat nacelles and the mid-mounted tapered wing are key identifiers.
Specifications
- The Bristol Blenheim I has a length of 12.12 m (40 ft).
- It has a wingspan of 17.17 m (56 ft).
- Typical crew: 3.
Figures are for the representative variant described above; marks differ. See how AircraftIQ sources figures.
History
The Type 142 demonstrated such exceptional performance that the Air Ministry immediately ordered a bomber derivative, which became the Blenheim. The Mk I entered RAF service in 1937 and was widely exported, serving with Finland, Romania, Turkey and Yugoslavia. By the outbreak of war it was already becoming obsolescent but flew the first RAF bombing mission of the Second World War on 4 September 1939.
Variants
The Blenheim I was the initial short-nosed bomber variant; the Mk IV introduced a lengthened nose and greater range; the Mk IF was a long-range fighter version with a ventral gun pack.
Where you'll see it
Blenheim Is served in the Middle East and Far East after being replaced in Europe, with Finnish Blenheims remaining operational into 1944 against Soviet forces.
Related aircraft
- Blenheim
- Bristol Britannia C.1
- F.2B Fighter
- Bristol Scout C
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- B-17 Flying Fortress
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- Breguet 460 Vultur
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