Naval Historywith Dr. Alex

Q&A · 1:56:11-1:57:41

Why Spearfish displaced a Griffon Barracuda

A cautious aircraft-procurement answer identifies likely engine and design factors without presenting an uncertain explanation as settled fact.

Bristol CentaurusFairey BarracudaFairey SpearfishFleet Air ArmRolls-Royce Griffon Engine
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Question

Why did the Griffon-powered Barracuda Mk IV lose out to the Fairey Spearfish?

Short answer

The tentative answer centers on the Spearfish's planned equipment and Centaurus-engine supply while also noting Eric Brown's unfavorable assessment.

Notes

The answer is explicitly tentative rather than a firm documentary conclusion. Possible factors include the Spearfish's two-seat arrangement, planned remote dorsal armament, and the availability of its Centaurus engine. Eric Brown also did not give the aircraft a favorable assessment. The passage preserves both the possible procurement logic and the limit placed on the claim.