Gotha
Gotha WD 13
The Gotha WD 13 was a German reconnaissance and patrol seaplane developed during World War I by Gothaer Waggonfabrik, known as Gotha. Designed as an evolution of the WD 7 and WD 8, the WD 13 first flew in early 1916 and entered service with the Imperial German Navy’s Marinefliegerkorps in 1917. Its twin‑float undercarriage enabled operations from coastal bases, while the conventional biplane layout with wooden frame and fabric covering provided reliability and ease of repair in the field.
Power came from a 150‑horsepower Mercedes D.II inline engine driving a two‑bladed propeller. The aircraft featured an open cockpit for a pilot and an observer/gunner, who operated a flexible 7.92 mm machine gun on a ring mount. The WD 13 could carry up to 150 kg of bombs or depth charges, making it useful for anti‑submarine patrols.
Only a limited number were built, but the WD 13 demonstrated the versatility of float‑equipped biplanes and influenced later Gotha maritime designs such as the WD 14 and the successful G.V bomber series. Its service highlighted the growing importance of naval aviation in WWI and paved the way for post‑war advances in seaplane technology.
Power came from a 150‑horsepower Mercedes D.II inline engine driving a two‑bladed propeller. The aircraft featured an open cockpit for a pilot and an observer/gunner, who operated a flexible 7.92 mm machine gun on a ring mount. The WD 13 could carry up to 150 kg of bombs or depth charges, making it useful for anti‑submarine patrols.
Only a limited number were built, but the WD 13 demonstrated the versatility of float‑equipped biplanes and influenced later Gotha maritime designs such as the WD 14 and the successful G.V bomber series. Its service highlighted the growing importance of naval aviation in WWI and paved the way for post‑war advances in seaplane technology.
Classification
Design & Classification
- Country of Origin
- Manufacturer
- Gotha
- Wikidata ID
- Q117196222