Specifications |
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Primary Function:
Crew: Engines: Power: Weight Empty: Max. Weight: Machine Guns: Length: Wingspan: Cruise Speed: Max. Speed: Initial Climb: Ceiling: Range: First Flight: Year Deployed: |
night fighter
two RR Merlin XX 1,280 h.p. 6,280 lbs. 8,420 lbs. 4- 7.7 mm 35 ft. 4 in. 39 ft. 4 in. 250 mph 315 mph 1,900 fpm 30,350 feet 465 miles 8/11/37 1940 |

The fighter achieved some initial success when first encountering enemy fighters. However, fighter aircraft were quick to exploit a weakness in the placement of the turret. It was that they could not be fired upon when attacking from in front of and below the aircraft. Also, the speed and maneuverability of the Boulton Paul Defiant was not equal to that of modern fighter aircraft. Defiant aircraft were not capable of besting the latest fighters of the Luftwaffe.
However, the Boulton Paul Defiant achieved a good deal of success when equipped with radar and used as a night fighter. It went on to become the most successful British night fighter of World War II. Eventually it equipped thirteen RAF squadrons.
A total of 1,064 Boulton Paul Defiant aircraft were produced.

RC Boulton Paul Defiant
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