The Hart was adapted with folding wings, floats, and corrosion resistance for trials aboard HMS Furious. The Sea Hart impressed evaluators with its manoeuvrability, maintenance qualities, waterproofing, and resistance to salt water. The resulting Osprey specification did not appear until 1930, four years after the original naval requirement, illustrating the delay created by balancing two ministries. Production aircraft served from HMS Eagle, HMS Courageous, and Home Fleet cruisers. A change to stainless-steel primary structure addressed the corrosive effects of maritime operations.
Chapter · 2:06:46-2:17:56
From Hawker Hart to Osprey fleet air defence
A Hart-derived seaplane becomes the Osprey after successful naval trials and a slow procurement process divided between the Air Ministry and Admiralty.