Q&A · 3:06:20-3:07:26

British and American floatplanes needed different shipboard equipment

A compatibility question explains why American Kingfishers and Seamews could not simply replace British Swordfish or Walrus aircraft aboard existing ships.

Question

Which Royal Navy shipboard floatplane equipment would work with American Kingfishers or Seamews?

Short answer

None without modification; the aircraft and handling systems were built around different shapes and connection standards.

Notes

Royal Navy ships were equipped around British aircraft such as the Fairey Swordfish and Supermarine Walrus, whose shapes differed from American floatplanes. The handling connections are also recalled as different, although that detail is qualified from memory. A Town-class cruiser might be adaptable, while an E-class cruiser is tentatively suggested for the Kingfisher. Both possibilities would require modifications. Similar changes would be needed if an American ship were to use British aircraft and equipment.