HOME  Handley Page Halifax |
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NOTE: RADIO CONTROL AIRPLANES ARE ON THE BOTTOM HALF OF THE PAGE.
Although not as famous as some other British aircraft, the Handley Page Halifax played a major role towards securing an Allied victory during the Second World War. It was the first four engine bomber to fly sorties against Germany forces.
The origins of the Halifax bomber trace back to a 1930's twin engine design utilizing trouble prone RR Vulture engines. In 1937 the design was highly modified by adding two additional engines. The Vulture engines were dropped in favor of Merlin X engines which proved far more reliable.
Based solely upon the new aircraft design, the RAF placed an initial order for 100 aircraft. The new design took to the sky in October of 1939 with deployment in late 1940. Their first missions were flown against German forces occupying France in March of 1941.
As the War progressed, the Halifax was improved. Total fuel payloads were increased, wings were lengthened, additional defensive armament and all weather radar was added, additional streamlining, including a retractable tail wheel, was employed, and more powerful engines were fitted to the aircraft.
The results were an aircraft that was more survivable, had greater range, speed, and altitude.
In addition to their primary function as bombers, versatile Halifax aircraft also were employed for reconnaissance, to tow gliders, and to transport airborne troops.
After the War a number of Halifax aircraft were converted for civil aviation use as passenger and cargo transports. Others soldiered on, serving in the English Coastal Command for maritime patrol and search and rescue. Both France and Pakistan continued to utilize the aircraft,
with the last Halifax being retired from active duty by Pakistan in 1961.
A total of 6,176 Handley Page Halifax aircraft of all types were produced.
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Mk III Specifications
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Weight Empty:
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Ordnance:
Machine Guns:
Length:
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Climb Rate:
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bomber
seven
Bristol Hercules R
4 x 1,615 h.p. ea.
39,000 lbs.
68,000 lbs.
14,500 lbs.
9 x 7.7 mm
71' 7"
104' 2"
282 mph
750 fpm
24,000 feet
1,985 miles
10/25/39
1940
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