Swordfish
Fairey · United Kingdom · first flew 1934 · bomber
The Fairey Swordfish was a British biplane torpedo bomber, the affectionately nicknamed Stringbag that scored some of the Fleet Air Arm's most famous victories despite its dated appearance.
Recognition (WEFT)
| W — Wings | Mid-mounted, straight |
|---|---|
| E — Engines | 1 × piston, nose-mounted |
| F — Fuselage | Fabric-covered fuselage, the famous Stringbag silhouette |
| T — Tail | Conventional |
WEFT is AircraftIQ's four-point recognition method — how it works.
Spot it by:
- Large biplane with two and three open cockpits in line
- Fixed undercarriage and an external torpedo slung beneath
- Fabric-covered fuselage, the famous Stringbag silhouette
The large open biplane layout with two or three cockpits in line is unmistakable. A fixed undercarriage and an external torpedo or stores slung under the fuselage confirm the type. Extensive fabric covering and wire bracing complete the Stringbag silhouette.
Specifications
- The Swordfish has a length of 10.87 m (36 ft).
- It has a wingspan of 13.87 m (46 ft).
- Its maximum speed is 230 km/h (143 mph).
- Typical crew: 2 to 3.
Figures are for the representative variant described above; marks differ. See how AircraftIQ sources figures.
History
First flown in 1934 as the TSR II prototype, the Swordfish was obsolescent in looks yet superbly suited to its role. Its torpedo strike crippled the Italian fleet at Taranto and helped cripple the battleship Bismarck. It outlasted its intended replacements and served throughout the war.
Variants
The Mk I gave way to the Mk II with metal-clad lower wings for rockets and the radar-equipped Mk III. Some operated on floats for catapult ships. Many flew from small escort carriers on convoy protection.
Where you'll see it
The Swordfish is a cherished Fleet Air Arm icon, with airworthy aircraft flown by the Navy Wings associated with Yeovilton and seen at displays including the Shuttleworth Collection. The Fleet Air Arm Museum at Yeovilton preserves the Taranto and Bismarck story. It remains one of Britain's most beloved naval warbirds.
Related aircraft
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