New RAF Museum Exhibit in Shropshire

A new RAF Museum exhibit in Shropshire has necessitated the relocation of three aircraft that were used during the First World War. These aircraft include the Bristol M1c, the SopwithStrutter, and the Sopwith Pup. Hundreds of thousands of British pounds have been allocated to the formation of Shropshire’s new Cosford museum exhibit, which aims to honor the use of such aircraft in the First World War to help achieve Allied victory.

Each of the relocated aircraft is included in the showcase for a different reason. In the case of the Briston M1c, it is a first in the field of aviation. This is because it was among the initial types of British aircraft used during the First World War which operated through the use of only one wing. The Sopwith Pup is included in the museum exhibit due primarily to its popularity. This small but effective plane was greatly valued by wartime aviators for its swiftness and agility. The SopwithStrutter is also included as it was widely used in a number of variations. The biplane utilized synchronization in the firing of its machine guns to make it dually troublesome for the enemy.

Taken to their new location by lorry, these planes needed a bit of work before they were ready to become part of a new showcase. This is especially true of the Sopwith Pup, since it was one of the most heavily used planes during the war. Prior to its inclusion in the museum exhibit, it needed work on the interior which was relatively tarnished. This is not surprising, given that the aircraft was a favored choice by aviators in need of effective lightweight machinery.

The Pup’s effectiveness is largely due to the fact that its engine was incredibly potent for the era in which it was created. Giving such a strong engine to such a small aircraft resulted in a tight turning radius. It is one of the featured items of the new Cosford museum exhibit due to these specifications. The Strutter is also a featured item due to its size. While the Pup is known for how small it is, the Strutter is conversely the largest plane in the showcase, the BBC News reports.

The new museum exhibit will include more than just planes. As a tribute to aviation, it will also include other forms of equipment. This includes helmets and other gear as well as correspondence from aviators. The overall goal of the new museum exhibit is to educate viewers as to the inner workings of WWI aircraft as well as the men who piloted them.

Ian Harvey

Ian Harvey is one of the authors writing for WAR HISTORY ONLINE