The F/A 1 - Cobra had its origins from the Airco DH.2 dating back to WW1. The first prototypes (YF-1) had a tandem cockpit for a pilot and co-pilot who doubles up as a gunner, seated in the forward view pod which a dual .50 calibre machine gun can be mounted.
Later versions had the co pilot position removed as it was too forward heavy, leading to the aircraft's nose hitting the ground most of the time during landings.
Made out of wood instead of fabric for the wings and an armoured cockpit and powered by a 9 cylinder air cooled radial engine. Due to its low stall speed and agility, this simple aircraft proved its worth fighting against flying dragons and naval ships.
*Image pictured with shark mouth decal of Gold Squadron*
Crew : 1 (2 for the the YF experimental variant)
Empty weight : 418 kg
Max take off weight : 684 kg
Max speed : 162 km/h at sea level
Cruising speed : 134 km
Range : 560 km
Combat radius : 465 km
Armaments
2 x 7 round 70 mm rocket pods
2 x 20 mm autocannon with 950 rounds
Jan Alexander
2019-01-07 04:25:21 +0000 UTC