The Little World

I am currently completing the Air Ministry paperwork preparatory to handing over the Handley Page Hampden to the RCAF. It is destined to be in a torpedo-bombing squadron in British Columbia. They have tried Bristol Beaufort torpedo bombers but cannot make them work.

The RCAF requested a light sky grey underside as they do not intend to operate the aircraft at night. British Columbian skies are a dirty light sky grey for 99% of the year and this should blend in nicely. The finish is satin gloss but a few months of sitting outside in the rain should flatten this down nicely.

This aircraft has been supplied well within the preferred fiscal guidelines, costing out to $ 17 per engine. This reflects the older nature of the kit. While this has not been too much of a problematical build after the basic airframe was straightened, the heavy riveting was noticeable. The perspex framing was eventually hand painted and has proved quite successful, though masking tape work might be the preferred method in future wherever possible. Favourable consideration will be given to aircraft manufacturers who produce canopies with broad, straight frames.

As the station gains experience with torpedo training, We shall supply further suitable aircraft. Several requests have been received for a section of Fairey Swordfish and a suitable supplier is being negotiated with.

Detail notes for the maintenance fitters:

a. The starboard operational code letters have been applied individually as there was a very faint ghosting observable on the port installation. This method of close trimming of code letters will be standard in the future.

b. The disruption to the paint surface observed after the camouflage masking was removed has been effectively dealt with by subsequent coats of varnish. Better masking methods are under consideration at the Ministry.