The Little World

As admirable as I may find the WW1 British designs for their aircraft – and I do like the SE5A – my admiration doesn’t extend to the War Office and their parsimonious attitude to paint.

In short – their aircraft schemes are dull. I have seen some colonial examples that looked sharp, but apparently were discouraged by the WO. And the idea of painting things khaki or green and then leaving the underside unpainted is not much better. Sure, there is a brand identity, but the visual appeal is largely lacking.

The French and Germans did it better.

Nevertheless, one must follow where history leads. Nondescript green on top and linen on the bottom, and hope that the roundels and tail will make it stand out on the shelf.

Note: I am pleased with the fact that the struts went in straight, albeit crudely. With most biplanes you get what you are given and endure it.