Gotha WD 15
Gotha · Germany · first flew 1917 · light aircraft
The Gotha WD 15 was a German World War I twin-engine biplane seaplane designed for maritime patrol and torpedo attack roles. It was one of several Gotha Wasser-Doppeldecker (WD) types produced for the Imperial German Navy.
Recognition (WEFT)
| W — Wings | Mid-mounted, straight |
|---|---|
| E — Engines | 2 × piston, wing-mounted |
| F — Fuselage | 11.2 m fuselage |
| T — Tail | Conventional |
WEFT is AircraftIQ's four-point recognition method — how it works.
Spot it by:
- German WWI twin-engine biplane floatplane
- Twin inline pusher or tractor engines on lower wing
- Twin-float undercarriage with open crew cockpits
A large biplane floatplane with twin engines, conventional tail, and open cockpits; distinguishable from the smaller WD 9 by its longer fuselage and wider wingspan.
Specifications
- The Gotha WD 15 has a length of 11.2 m (37 ft).
- It has a wingspan of 17.6 m (58 ft).
- Its maximum speed is 140 km/h (87 mph).
- Typical crew: 2.
Figures are for the representative variant described above; marks differ. See how AircraftIQ sources figures.
History
Gotha developed a range of twin-engine seaplanes for the Kaiserliche Marine during World War I. The WD 15 appeared in 1917 as part of this series, intended for North Sea patrol and anti-shipping operations. Production numbers were modest and the type saw limited operational use.
Variants
Part of the broader Gotha WD series of naval seaplanes; the WD 1, WD 5, WD 9, and WD 15 formed a progressive development sequence.
Where you'll see it
Operated by the Imperial German Navy (Kaiserliche Marine) on North Sea and Baltic patrol duties in 1917-1918.
Related aircraft
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