Q&A · 1:46:36-1:50:55

Torpedo-bomber preferences from the Cuckoo to the Avenger

The panel's choices reveal competing preferences for early designs, multirole capability and particular wartime aircraft.

Question

What are the panel's favourite single- or twin-engined torpedo bombers?

Short answer

Choices include the Skypirate, Barracuda, Swordfish, Laté 298, Avenger and Sopwith Cuckoo, with preferences including multirole versatility and a design's place in torpedo-bomber development.

Notes

The Skypirate, Barracuda and Swordfish receive competing endorsements. Foxo favours the Barracuda for combining combat air patrol, dive-bombing and torpedo work in one aircraft. Another panellist first nominates the French Laté 298 to provoke Foxo, then gives the Avenger as the more serious choice. The Sopwith Cuckoo receives a separate endorsement as an ancestor of later torpedo-bomber development. These are personal choices driven by different criteria.