SUBJECTS >> OPERATIONS >> World War I
AIRCRAFT >> FIGHTERS >> Spad
Catalog Number:
1993.229
Location:
4E1024
Description:
The main fighter of both French and American units by wars end. A tough two gun fighter with a 138 MPH speed it began equipping U.S. squadrons in July 1918, replacing the Nieuport 28. About 8,500 built. In June 1918, 20 Spad-17's, a larger version with a 300 HP engine, were supplied to the French Stork Squadron for their top aces. Shown is Capt Edward Rickenbacker on Oct. 10, 1918 over Dun, North of Verdun, shooting down in flames, German Ace Kohlbach, of the Richthofen flying circus. He parachuted to safety and survived the war. (Allied pilots did not have parachutes).
