hobart-seagull2.jpg Supermarine Seagull
Originally called Seagull V, the Walrus was a biplane amphibian aircraft. The prototype flew for the first time in June 1933. Australia was the first country to order the Seagull V and it entered service with the Royal Australian Air Force in 1935, although it was primarily intended the aircraft would operate from Royal Australian Navy cruisers. The Seagull V entered service with Britain's Fleet Air Arm in 1936, but in British service it was known as the Walrus. To its crews, however, it was widely known as the Shagbat.
During the Second World War, it proved a versatile aircraft, despite its ungainly appearance. It carried out its intended role as a ship-launched reconnaissance aircraft, and was also utilised for anti-submarine patrols, air-sea rescue operations, and general liaison duties operating from bases ashore. Walrus served in 15 RAF squadrons based in Europe, the Middle East and the Mediterranean. Additional aircraft were acquired by Australia, and retained the name Walrus, during the war. In Australian service the Seagull V/Walrus was operated by 5, 9 and 10 Squadrons and was also deployed aboard HMA Ships Australia, Brisbane, Canberra, Hobart, Perth and Sydney. It was retired from RAAF service in 1947. A total of 771 Seagull V / Walrus aircraft were built.
Specifications:
Supermarine Walrus
Type: Biplane amphibian
Entered service: 1935
Crew: 2-4
Wing span: 13.97 m
Length: 11.45 m
Weight (unladen): 2,223 kg
Ceiling: 5,120 m
Endurance: Maximum range 965 km
Speed: 217 km/h
Armament: 2 x .303-in machine-guns
up to 227 kg of bombs or delth charges