Supermarine Sea Otter
| Sea Otter | |
|---|---|
 |
|
| Prototype of Sea Otter | |
| Role | Amphibian |
| Manufacturer | Supermarine |
| First flight | 23 September 1938 |
| Primary users |
Royal Air Force Royal Navy Royal Danish Air Force |
| Produced | 1942–1945 |
| Number built | 292 |
| Developed from | Supermarine Walrus |
The Supermarine Sea Otter was a British amphibian aircraft designed and built by Supermarine; it was a longer-range development of the Walrus and was the last biplane flying boat to be designed by Supermarine; it was also the last biplane to enter service with the Royal Navy and the RAF.
The main difference between the Walrus and the Sea Otter was in the mounting of the powerplant; the Walrus had a rear-facing engine with a pusher propeller and the Sea Otter's engine faced forward with a tractor propeller.
There was considerable development of the power plant/propeller combination during the design of the Sea Otter, which at its conception was called the "Stingray". The original test aircraft had a Bristol Perseus XI radial engine with a two-bladed propeller, which gave insufficient thrust so a two-position three-blade propeller was substituted, later changed again to a four-bladed type with the pairs of blades set at an angle of 35°, instead of the usual 90°. The first flight took place on 23 September 1938, but it was not until January 1942 that the Air Ministry placed a production order. Due to cooling troubles found with the Perseus, the power-plant was changed for production aircraft to the Bristol Mercury XXX engine driving a three-bladed propeller. The Sea Otter was used by both the RAF and the Royal Navy for air-sea rescue and patrol roles.
Postwar, Sea Otters were converted for civilian use. The cabin was soundproofed and fitted with heating. Seating for four passengers, a chemical toilet and a stowage for baggage were provided. As they were intended for use as Bush airplanes in remote areas, versatility was important. To allow cargo to be carried, the cabin floor was strengthened and fitted with lashing points, and the passenger seats made easily removable.
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