Italy's Imam Ro.43 reconnaissance floatplane
Photos
Imam Ro.43 reconnaissance floatplane: |
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Imam Ro.43 reconnaissance floatplane: |
Design
The Imam Ro.43 was based on the land based Ro.37.1
The Imam Ro.43 was used primarily as a catapult launched seaplane.1 It was assigned to Italian Navy ships, with cruisers carrying two Ro.43s, and battleships could carry up to four Ro.43s.1
The structure of the Ro.43 was composite.1 The wings could be folded backwards for easier storage.1
Prototype
Production
- Imam Ro.43:
- Manufacturer: Industrie Meccaniche Aeronautiche Meridionali1
Variants
- Imam Ro.43: Reconnaissace.1
- Imam Ro.44: Fighter.1 Single seat.1
Usage
The Imam Ro.43 remained in service until the Italian Armistice in September 1943.1
Specifications
| Imam Ro.43 floatplane1 | |
|---|---|
| Type | Reconnaissance1 |
| Crew | 21 |
| Engine (Type) | Piaggio P.XR1 |
| Cylinders | Radial 91 |
| Cooling | Air1 |
| HP | 7001 |
| Propeller blades | |
| Dimensions | |
| Span | 37' 11"1 |
| Length | 31' 10"1 |
| Height | 11' 6"1 |
| Wing area | |
| Weight | |
| Empty | |
| Loaded | 5,300 lb1 |
| Maximum load | |
| Performance | |
| Speed @ 6,500' | 188 mph1 |
| Cruising speed | |
| Climb | |
| Service ceiling | 23,600'1 |
| Range | 678 miles1 |
| Armament | 2: MG1 |
Sources:
- World War II Airplanes Volume 1, Enzo Angelucci, Paolo Matricardi, 1976
