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Hello everyone, and welcome to this new suggestion.
Today, I am introducing an aircraft used by French forces during the Second World War: the Supermarine Walrus Mk.I.
The Supermarine Walrus was a British amphibious reconnaissance and air-sea rescue aircraft developed during the early 1930s by Supermarine, a company that would later achieve worldwide fame through the production of the Spitfire. Designed as a versatile naval aircraft, the Walrus featured an all-metal hull, folding wings, and a single engine mounted in a pusher configuration between the wings. The prototype made its maiden flight in 1933, and the aircraft entered service with the Royal Air Force and Royal Navy in 1935.
Although originally conceived as a reconnaissance aircraft, the Walrus quickly proved to be a remarkably versatile machine. During the Second World War, it was widely employed for maritime patrol, artillery spotting, liaison duties, and, most importantly, air-sea rescue missions. Many Royal Navy warships carried Walruses aboard and launched them using catapults, allowing the aircraft to scout ahead of the fleet or recover downed airmen from the sea. Despite its modest performance, the aircraft earned an excellent reputation for reliability and toughness.
The Walrus played a more discreet but nevertheless important role within French forces. In late 1943, twelve Walrus Mk.I aircraft were delivered to the French Naval Aviation and assigned to Flotilla 4S, which was then based in Corsica following the liberation of the island. From there, the aircraft operated over the western Mediterranean, carrying out maritime patrols and search-and-rescue missions in support of Allied operations.
During its service with Flotilla 4S, the aircraft also participated in maritime surveillance operations. The Walruses were credited with spotting numerous naval mines and even conducting attacks against enemy submarines on several occasions. However, the aircraft was not without its shortcomings. Operating a seaplane was inherently demanding, and the Walrus suffered from a number of accidents during its French service. Several aircraft were damaged during landing operations or while maneuvering on the water.
Following the end of the war, the French Navy began receiving more modern and capable flying boats, notably the CAMS-built Dornier 24. As these newer aircraft entered service, the Walrus was gradually withdrawn from frontline duties. The remaining airworthy examples were transferred to other naval aviation units, particularly training and support squadrons such as Flotillas 50S, 52S, and 53S, where they continued to serve for a time before eventually being retired in the early 50s.
Characteristics
Length : 11.46 m
Width : 13.97 m
Height : 4.65 m
Mass :
- Empty : 2 223 kg
- Full : 3 651 kg
The aircraft is powered by a 750 hp Bristol Pegasus VI engine in a pusher configuration, allowing it to reach a top speed of 217 km/h and a service ceiling of 5,600 m. Its range at a cruising speed of 148 km/h is 970 km.
Its crew consists of 3 to 4 personnel, including a pilot, a co-pilot (optional), and two gunners at their respective stations.
Weapons
The aircraft’s armament is relatively light, featuring two defensive positions equipped with 7.5mm Vickers machine guns located at the front and rear of the aircraft. Offensive armament consists of an assortment of bombs and depth charges. The following configurations are available:
- 6 x 1000lbs bombs
- 2 x 250lbs bombs
- 2 x Mk.VIII 250lbs depth charge
In-game, this aircraft would be an interesting addition as a light attack seaplane, a type of aircraft currently missing from the French tech tree, thereby helping to round out the lineup effectively.
Pictures
