Salmson 2
Salmson · France · first flew 1917 · fighter
The Salmson 2 was a French two-seat biplane used for reconnaissance and artillery observation during the final years of World War I. It was renowned for its reliability and performance, powered by the unique Salmson Canton-Unné water-cooled radial engine.
Recognition (WEFT)
| W — Wings | Mid-mounted, straight |
|---|---|
| E — Engines | 1 × piston, nose-mounted |
| F — Fuselage | 8.5 m fuselage |
| T — Tail | Conventional |
WEFT is AircraftIQ's four-point recognition method — how it works.
Spot it by:
- WWI two-seat biplane with radial engine
- Distinctive Canton-Unné water-cooled radial
- Balanced ailerons with characteristic cutouts in upper wing
Identified by its unusual water-cooled radial engine with prominent external plumbing, unequal-span biplane wings with cutouts in the upper trailing edge for the observer's field of fire, and a clean rounded fuselage.
Specifications
- The Salmson 2 has a length of 8.5 m (28 ft).
- It has a wingspan of 11.75 m (39 ft).
- Its maximum speed is 188 km/h (117 mph).
- Typical crew: 2.
Figures are for the representative variant described above; marks differ. See how AircraftIQ sources figures.
History
Entering service in early 1918, the Salmson 2 quickly became the standard French Army reconnaissance aircraft, eventually equipping over 50 escadrilles. American Expeditionary Forces also flew it extensively, and it was highly regarded by crews for its maneuverability and engine dependability. Over 3,200 were built.
Variants
The Salmson 2A2 was the principal production variant; the Salmson 2B2 was a refined version with minor modifications. Post-war civil variants appeared briefly.
Where you'll see it
Served primarily with France and the United States during WWI; post-war examples operated in several South American air forces and as civilian touring aircraft.
Related aircraft
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