Q&A ยท 3:43:28-3:46:06

Why the Sea Hurricane never received folding wings

Carrier lift constraints made folding wings attractive, but imported Martlets, Hellcats, and Corsairs overtook the need to redesign the Sea Hurricane.

Question

When did Sea Hurricanes receive folding wings?

Short answer

They did not; a folding-wing version was considered, but American carrier fighters arrived before the redesign became worthwhile.

Notes

Operational Sea Hurricanes did not receive folding wings. Older carriers could stow non-folding aircraft below, while newer armored carriers had lift dimensions and deck-parking limits that made the issue more acute. A folding-wing concept modeled on the Fulmar was considered, but the growing supply of American carrier fighters removed much of the incentive before it entered service.