| Voisin L | |
|---|---|
| |
| Role | Reconnaissance, Bomber, Trainer |
| Manufacturer | Voisin Anatra Dux |
| Designer | Gabriel Voisin |
| First flight | 1912 |
| Primary users | Aéronautique Militaire Aéronavale Imperial Russian Air Service |
| Number built | 70 (France) 400 (Russian Empire) |
| Developed into | Voisin III |
The Voisin L was a pusher biplane developed for the French Army's 1912 trials[1] where it performed successfully. About 70 were built in France[2] with around 400 manufactured under license in the Russian Empire.[3] The aircraft was the first in a series of military pusher biplanes from Voisin all of which had similar design characteristics.[1] During the early stages of World War I the aircraft were primarily used for reconnaissance.
The Voisin L was the only rotary engine powered aircraft designed by Gabriel Voisin. The official French military designation for aircraft powered by the Rhône 9C was the Voisin I while those fitted with the Gnome Monosoupape 7A were designated as the Voisin II. The rotary engine on the Voisin L drove a large two bladed wooden propeller via a reduction gearbox.[4]
- ^ a b Simons, Graham M (2019). "Hydro avions". Early French Aviation (1905-1930). Pen and Sword. ISBN 9781526758750.
- ^ Davilla, James J; Soltan, Arthur M (2002). French aircraft of the First World War. Flying Machines Press. p. 542. ISBN 9781891268090.
- ^ Blume, August G (2010). The Russian Military Air Fleet in World War I. Vol. 1 - A chronology 1910-1917. United States: Schiffer. pp. 297–298. ISBN 978-0764333514.
- ^ Pernet, Andre (January 1963). "La Premier Victorie Aerienne" [The first air victory]. Aviation (in French) (362): 46–47.