- Yes
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Hello everyone, and welcome to this new suggestion.
Today, I am presenting a new French Navy seaplane: the JRF-5 Goose.
In the late 1930s, Grumman unveiled a new seaplane, the G-21 Goose—an affordable, light aircraft designed for passenger transport. The aircraft was so impressive that it quickly attracted military interest, particularly in the United States, where a number were purchased for testing. These trials were successful, leading to a contract with the manufacturer for a military version. Initially intended for training and target-towing roles, the aircraft were soon upgraded to serve as ground-support platforms through the installation of weaponry.
By the early 1950s, France was embroiled in the Indochina War, and the situation was complex; numerous ships were bypassing French blockades daily to deliver weapons and supplies to independence fighters. French Navy aviators, then operating Supermarine Walrus and Sea Otter aircraft, were unfortunately unable to counter this activity due to the age of their planes. Consequently, an order was placed with the United States for Goose aircraft. In 1952, Flotilla 8S took delivery of 12 JRF-5s, which completely replaced the older models.
Over the following years, the Goose fleet flew thousands of missions in Indochina—ranging from ship escorts to ground force support—proving perfectly suited to their roles. After the war, the aircraft were distributed across various French territories: some returned to Metropolitan France, others were deployed to North Africa to bolster French forces during the Algerian War, and some even ended up in the French Pacific islands. In the late 1950s, the last remaining operational JRF-5s were gradually withdrawn from service, as they were no longer needed by French units and were making way for more modern aircraft. They were, after all, among the last light seaplanes used by the Naval Air Arm.
Characteristics
Length : 11.70 m
Width : 14.90 m
Height : 3.70 m
Mass :
- Empty : 2 527 kg
- Max : 3 720 kg
The aircraft is powered by two 450 hp Pratt & Whitney R-985 engines, enabling it to reach a top speed of 296 km/h and a service ceiling of 6,400 m. Its range is 1,690 km.
The crew consists of a pilot, a mechanic, and a radio operator who also serves as a gunner.
Weapons
Despite its light weight, the aircraft carries a substantial armament, including the following:
Defensive armament:
- 1 x 12.7mm machine gun (roof-mounted and accessible via a hatch; see image)
Offensive armament:
- 2 x 7.62mm machine guns (banked on the left side of the aircraft)
- 8 x under-wing hardpoints for 10kg bombs
- 2 x 250kg bombs
- 4 x Mk.9 rocket launchers
In-game, this aircraft would be an interesting addition to the French tree, providing a lightweight machine with weaponry capable of effectively engaging various types of targets.
Pictures
