Engine accounts uncover a practical dispute beneath the institutional argument for creating the RAF. RFC figures appeared to show hundreds of surplus engines that could equip a strategic bombing force, while naval accounts allocated much of that production to replacement parts for aircraft already in service. The discrepancy came from different accounting systems rather than simple bad faith by either side. Procurement categories and readiness assumptions could therefore shape major service reforms as powerfully as doctrine did.
Notable Point · 16:47-21:32
Engine accounting shaped the case for a unified air force
Different treatment of spare engines and components made the RFC expect a surplus for strategic bombers while the RNAS saw only enough production to sustain aircraft already planned.