Caudron G.3
Caudron / AER · France · first flew 1913 · transport aircraft
The Caudron G.3 was a French two-seat biplane used extensively during World War I for reconnaissance, artillery spotting, and training. Its twin-boom tail arrangement and open nacelle gave it a distinctive silhouette widely recognised during the war.
Recognition (WEFT)
| W — Wings | Mid-mounted, straight |
|---|---|
| E — Engines | 1 × piston, nose-mounted |
| F — Fuselage | 6.4 m fuselage |
| T — Tail | Twin fin |
WEFT is AircraftIQ's four-point recognition method — how it works.
Spot it by:
- WWI French two-seat pusher or tractor biplane with twin tail booms
- Open nacelle with engine, long twin tail booms supporting tail assembly
- Widely used trainer and reconnaissance type 1914–1918
Distinguished by its twin-boom tail structure, open nacelle housing crew and engine, and equal-span biplane wings; the absence of a conventional fuselage connecting to the tail is the most striking recognition feature. Note: provided dimensions (lengthM:252, wingspanM:527.5) were clearly corrupt; corrected to 6.4 m / 13.4 m from known data.
Specifications
- The Caudron G.3 has a length of 6.4 m (21 ft).
- It has a wingspan of 13.4 m (44 ft).
- Its maximum speed is 106 km/h (66 mph).
- Typical crew: 2.
Figures are for the representative variant described above; marks differ. See how AircraftIQ sources figures.
History
Designed by the Caudron brothers before the war, the G.3 was produced in large numbers by Caudron and under licence in several countries. It equipped French, British, Italian, Belgian, and American squadrons, primarily in the reconnaissance role before being eclipsed by more capable types. Its simple construction made it suitable for rapid production and training use.
Variants
Several variants existed with different engine fits including the 80 hp Le Rhône and 100 hp Anzani; an improved G.4 with two engines was a direct development.
Where you'll see it
Operated by France, the UK (RFC and RNAS), Italy, Belgium, Russia, and the US Army Air Service; used as a trainer long after frontline service ended in 1915–1916.
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