Belgian Wings
Belgian Air Force, past and present.
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Farman (Maurice) MF.11bis (also called MF130 in Belgium)
Single engine twin seat Observation - Bomber aircraft.
The Maurice Farman MF.11bis, was an improved version of the MF.11 (see datafile higher). The aircraft was equipped with a redesigned nacelle (with added protection for the gunner) while maintaining the same pusher configuration featuring the distinctive sesquiplane design which includes a larger upper wing and a smaller lower wing. The 80hp Renault 8b was replaced by the more powerful Renault 8c delivering 130hp.
In the Belgian Air Service, the MF.11 was mainly used for reconnaissance and bombing missions and was generally known as the "Farman MF.130" indicating the engine's power output.
According to several sources, the Belgian Government acquired a total of 20 MF.11bis aircraft spread over two orders (12 + 8) which became operational in early 1916. However, another source mentions two orders for 12 MF.11bis’ and 4 MF.12 aircraft (basically an MF.11bis with enlarged wings and powered by Renault 8c engine rated at 100hp). Up to now, no confirmation of this mixed order could be found. Belgian Air Service Farman MF.11bis' were operated by N°s, 1, 2 and 3 Squadrons from Ten Bogaerde airfield and N°s 4 and 5 Squadrons from Houtem airfield.
Unlike its predecessor the MF.11, only a handful Belgian Air Service serials are known. Also, contrary to the MF.11, very few MF.11bis' were used as trainers after their frontline service. Nevertheless, up to 15 MF.11bis aircraft were extensively modified with the addition of a broadened Farman F.40 type nacelle allowing for a student-pilot and instructor to sit side-by- side. This model is known as the Farman MF.11bis -Type 45 and was operational post-WWI at the pilot School of Asch. The datafile of this unique machine can be found in the menu. (Daniel Brackx)
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More individual aircraft will be added in the future.
Photo slider with additional, non-identified Belgian Farman MF.11bis aircraft.