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deHavilland VAMPIRE
RCAF Vampire aircraft of the Blue Devilsaerobatic team (CF Photo)
On 20 September 1940, a prototype of the De Havilland Vampire became the third British jet aircraft-type to fly. It was fully introduced into service too late however to see active combat during World War II.
Canada briefly evaluated the second British jet, the Gloster Meteor, and after the acquisition of a sole Mark I the De Havilland Vampire was selected as the first jet-powered aircraft for full scale RCAF service.
The first of 85 Mark III aircraft began to arrive in 1948. The aircraft were primarily assigned to RCAF Auxiliary Squadrons. 421 Sqn at Chatham, New Brunswick was the only regular force squadron to employ the aircraft. The unusual design of the aircraft featured a variety of materials. While the aircraft was primarily metal, the cockpit section featured a composite balsa wood construction similar to the De Havilland Mosquito.
Vampires were rapidly superceded in the jet age and the last examples retired in 1958.
| Manufacturer: | deHavilland Aircraft |
| Crew/Passengers: | one pilot |
| Power Plant: | one 3,100 lb (1,405 kg) thrust De Havilland Goblin 2 jet engine |
| Performance: | Max Speed: 531 mph (855 kph) Cruising Speed: Service Ceiling: 43,500 ft (13,260 m) |
| Weights: | Empty: 7,134 lb (3,235 kg) Gross: 11,970 lb (5,430 kg) |
| Dimensions: | Span: 40 ft 0 in (12.19 m) Length: 30 ft 9 in (9.37m) Height: 8 ft 10 in (2.69 m) Wing Area: 226 sq ft (20.99 sq m) |
| Armament: | four 20 mm cannon |
| Cost: | Unknown |
1/48 deHavilland Vampire F3
Out-of-Stock
Fighter Squadron: 441 Squadron from Hurricanes to Hornets
CA$60.00