Q&A · 49:29-49:54

Were land-based torpedo bombers available in World War I?

Land-based torpedo aviation existed as a developing option, but float-equipped aircraft still dominated wartime practice.

Question

Did First World War navies operate land-based aircraft capable of carrying torpedoes?

Short answer

Yes, several nations were developing them, although most contemporary operational torpedo aircraft were still seaplanes or floatplanes.

Notes

Land-based torpedo bombers were not an anachronism in this period. Several navies were working on them, and land-based testing contributed to the development of aerial torpedo delivery. The operational balance nevertheless remained weighted toward seaplanes and floatplanes during the war. This distinction separates the availability of the weapon concept from the slower creation of a carrier-ready strike system.