This pro-type plane was built so that it could be launched from platforms on battleships, cruisers or even torpedo boats. It was to be a disposable, one-operation plane able to "go up, intercept and shoot down the airship, then ditch in the sea.
The first flight of one was made September 1, 1917, but it was found to be unstable. Alterations were made, but by then the threat of airship attack had passed and the project was dropped. A photo accompanied the article and it is very small.
The Daily mail says it had a 45 horsepower engine with a 20-foot wingspan and a Lewis gun.
Classified as a Port Victoria P.V.8 Eastchurch Kitten. The replica was rebuilt with an original wood frame and recycled parts.
Just Another Aspect of War Technology.
--Cooter
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