The S.E.5 was a contemporary of the Sopwith Camel and was considered more stable and easier to fly. But shortages of engines slowed down production until the last year of the war, and more squadrons were equipped with the Camel.
The S.E.5 was one of the fastest planes in World War 1 and was highly maneuverable. With the cockpit set far back in the plane, forward visiblity was limited, especially on landing, but otherwise visibility was excellent.
This plane carries the markings of the No. 6 Squadron of the Australian Flying Corps.
| Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Country of Manufacture | Great Britain |
| First Year of Service | 1917 |
| Wing Span | 26.6 ft | 8.11 m |
| Length | 20.9 ft | 6.38 m |
| Height | 9.5 ft | 2.87 m |
| Weight | 1988 lbs | 902 kg |
| Engine | Wolseley Viper, V8 liquid cooled engine, 200hp |
| Top Speed | 120 mph | 193 km/h |
| Range | 300 miles | 483 km |
| Armament | 1 Vickers .303 and 1 Lewis .303 machine gun |
| Crew | 1 |
