Farman MF.11 Shorthorn
Farman Aviation Works · France · first flew 1913 · bomber
The Farman MF.11 Shorthorn was a French pusher biplane widely used in World War I for reconnaissance, bombing, and training. The absence of the forward elevator booms that characterised the earlier MF.7 Longhorn gave the MF.11 its nickname.
Recognition (WEFT)
| W — Wings | Mid-mounted, straight |
|---|---|
| E — Engines | 1 × piston, fuselage-mounted |
| F — Fuselage | 9.3 m fuselage |
| T — Tail | Conventional |
WEFT is AircraftIQ's four-point recognition method — how it works.
Spot it by:
- WWI-era pusher biplane without forward skids (hence 'Shorthorn')
- Observer/gunner in front nacelle ahead of pilot
- No front elevator distinguishes it from the Longhorn
Classic WWI pusher biplane nacelle layout, observer/gunner ahead of pilot, twin tail booms, and the absence of forward skids that identified the earlier Longhorn.
Specifications
- The Farman MF.11 Shorthorn has a length of 9.3 m (31 ft).
- It has a wingspan of 15.7 m (52 ft).
- Its maximum speed is 116 km/h (72 mph).
- Typical crew: 2.
Figures are for the representative variant described above; marks differ. See how AircraftIQ sources figures.
History
The MF.11 entered service with French, British (Royal Flying Corps and Royal Naval Air Service), and Belgian forces in 1914-15 as a reconnaissance and light bombing aircraft. Its pusher configuration gave the observer an unobstructed field of fire forward, and it was one of the first aircraft used for aerial photography and artillery spotting. It was built in large numbers and licence-manufactured in the UK and Italy.
Variants
Various engine fits including Renault and Canton-Unné; Italian Fiat-built versions served the Regia Aeronautica. A seaplane variant also flew.
Where you'll see it
Served with France, Britain, Belgium, Russia, and Italy from 1914-17 before being replaced by tractor designs; widely used for training throughout the war.
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