| Shark | |
|---|---|
 RCAF Blackburn Shark Mk II | |
| General information | |
| Type | torpedo-spotter-reconnaissance aircraft |
| National origin | United Kingdom |
| Manufacturer | Blackburn Aircraft |
| Primary users | Royal Navy |
| Number built | 269 |
| History | |
| Manufactured | 1937–1939 |
| Introduction date | 1934 |
| First flight | 24 August 1933 |
| Retired | 1945 |
The Blackburn Shark was a carrier-borne torpedo bomber designed and built by the British aviation manufacturer Blackburn Aircraft. It was originally known as the Blackburn T.S.R., standing for "torpedo-spotter-reconnaissance", in reference to its intended roles. The Shark was the last of Blackburn's biplane torpedo bombers.[1]
The prototype Shark performed its maiden flight on 24 August 1933, the first production aircraft was introduced to service during the following year. It was operated by the Fleet Air Arm, Royal Canadian Air Force, Portuguese Navy, and the British Air Observers' School. By 1937, the Shark was already approaching obsolescence and replacement by the more capable Fairey Swordfish began during the following year. Despite this, numerous aircraft continued to be operated during the Second World War, largely being confined to secondary roles away from the front lines, such as training and target tug duties. Despite this, Sharks were repeatedly deployed in frontline roles during events such as the Dunkirk Evacuation and the Japanese invasion of British Malaya. During 1945, the final Sharks were withdrawn from service.