RAF FE2d
By Chris Banyai-Riepl
Windsock Datafile 134
Author: Colin. A. Owers
Publisher: Albatros Publications
ISBN: 978-1-906798-00-0
Binding: Softcover
Pages: 32 Pages
The newest Datafile is a timely release, as it covers an aircraft that has recently returned to the skies, the FE2. The Vintage Aviator Ltd down in New Zealand has recently constructed a flying replica of the FE2b, which is bound to draw attention to this attractive pusher fighter. This newest Datafile covers the later FE2, the FE2d, which was powered by a Rolls Royce Eagle engine. This increase in power gave the FE2d a bit more top speed and better climb capability, and the first FE2d took to the air in early April 1916. Right away the benefits of the new engine became apparent, as the maximum altitude went from a mediocre 9000 feet to nearly double at 17,000 feet. With that performance increase, the FE2d secured a production contract and the aircraft saw combat throughout 1917.
This latest Datafile does the usual high quality treatment for the FE2d, with a good number of high quality photos complementing the well written text. Scale drawings in the center section drawn by Ian Stair provide excellent information for the modeler. A small addendum on colors and markings details the basic schemes worn by the FE2d, and a trio of profiles on the back cover provides that information in color.
For those interested in those classic pusher designs, this is a great book to have. The amount of information is superb, both in the written word and in the photographic collection. My thanks to Albatros Publications for the review copy.