F.E.2

The Royal Aircraft Establishment’s F.E.2 series emerged in 1915 as a versatile British biplane that filled the critical roles of reconnaissance, light bombing, and night fighting during the First World War. Designed by Henry Folland and built initially at the Royal Aircraft Factory’s Farnborough works, the aircraft employed a distinctive pusher configuration with the engine mounted behind the crew compartment, granting an unobstructed forward field of fire for the front‑mounted gunner. Early versions, such as the F.E.2a, were powered by a 120‑hp Beardmore engine and carried a single observer; the later F.E.2b, equipped with a more reliable 160‑hp Beardmore or a 150‑hp Mercedes, introduced a strengthened airframe, larger wingspan, and dual‑seat layout that greatly improved endurance and payload. Its robust construction allowed operation from rough forward airfields, while the high‑mounted pusher propeller reduced the risk of debris damage. The type proved especially effective in night‑fighter duties, scoring several victories against German Zeppelins and Gotha bombers. Though quickly outclassed by faster tractor‑prop aircraft after 1917, the F.E.2’s adaptability demonstrated the value of multi‑role platforms and informed post‑war bomber and fighter designs, marking a pivotal step in British military aviation development.

Royal Aircraft Establishment

Classification

Production & History

Design & Classification