de Havilland DH-4

The de Havilland DH-4, manufactured by the Aircraft Manufacturing Co. Ltd. (Airco) and designed by Sir Geoffrey de Havilland, is known as the best single engine biplane bomber of World War I. It was designed in response to a 1914 British War Office requirement for a two-seat day bomber.

The aircraft was known for its strength, maneuverability, and speed. It was faster than many enemy aircraft of its day.

The de Havilland DH-4 was used as a bomber, a reconnaissance and observation aircraft, for anti-shipping, as a Zeppelin interceptor, and for mail deliveries. It was the primary light bomber of the American Expeditionary Forces.

The pilot’s cockpit was placed far forward in the fuselage for better visibility. However, the rear gunner/observer was so far to the rear of the aircraft that communication was only possible through hand signals.

The de Havilland DH-4 was originally designed around the 230 hp Beardmore-Halford-Pullinger engine. There were so many development problems with the new engine that no fewer than seven different engine types were fitted to production aircraft.

A total of 1,449 de Havilland DH-4 aircraft were built in the UK, and a total of 4,846 were produced in the U.S.A.

The RC de Havilland DH-4 from Balsa USA has a wingspan of 127 in. and length is 89 in. From 45 to 65 cc engines will power the 34 lb. giant scale model.

Cleveland Models & Supply has plans for the RC de Havilland DH-4 from 1/32 to 1/4 scale. Wingspans available are 16, 21, 32, 43, 64, 85, and 128 inches.