Jump to content

RWD 13: Difference between revisions

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Browse history interactively
← Previous editNext edit →
Content deleted Content added
VisualWikitext
In heading "Developed from" Was: RWD-6 Improved to: RWD-9 Explaining: Although the first prototype of RWD 13 was named RWD 6 bis II, the construction has more in common with RWD 9.
Tags: Mobile edit Mobile web edit
(35 intermediate revisions by 21 users not shown)
Line 1: Line 1:
{|{{Infobox Aircraft Begin
{|{{Infobox aircraft begin
|name =RWD-13
|name =RWD-13
|image =RWD 13 front.jpg
|image =RWD 13 front.jpg
|caption =RWD-13 in the [[Polish Aviation Museum]]
|caption =RWD 13 in the [[Polish Aviation Museum]]
}}{{Infobox Aircraft Type
}}{{Infobox aircraft type
|type =Touring plane
|type =Touring plane
|national origin = Poland
|national origin = Poland
Line 13: Line 13:
|status =
|status =
|primary user = [[Poland]]
|primary user = [[Poland]]
|more users = [[Yugoslavia]]<br />[[Romania]]<br/>[[Brazil]]<br/>Israel
|more users = [[Yugoslavia]]<br />[[Romania]]<br/>[[Brazil]]<br/>
|produced = 1935-1939
|produced = 1935-1939
|number built =approx. 100
|number built =approx. 100
|unit cost =
|unit cost =
|developed from = [[RWD-6]]
|developed from = [[RWD-9]]
|variants with their own articles =
|variants with their own articles =
}}
}}
|}
|}
The '''RWD-13''' was a [[Poland|Polish]] touring plane of [[1935 in aviation|1935]], three-seater high-wing monoplane, designed by the [[RWD (aircraft manufacturer)|RWD]] team. It was the biggest commercial success of the RWD.
The '''RWD 13''' was a Polish touring plane of [[1935 in aviation|1935]], three-seater high-wing monoplane, designed by the [[RWD (aircraft manufacturer)|RWD]] team. It was the biggest commercial success of the RWD.


==Development==
==Development==
The '''RWD-13''' was a touring plane, developed from a line of sports planes [[RWD-6]] (a winner of [[Challenge 1932]] international touring aircraft contest) and [[RWD-9]] (a winner of [[Challenge 1934]]).<ref name=S>Schmidt, H. (1968)</ref> It was designed by [[Stanisław Rogalski]] and [[Jerzy Drzewiecki]] of the RWD team, in the DWL workshops (''[[Doświadczalne Warsztaty Lotnicze]]'') in Warsaw, for and order of the [[LOPP]] paramilitary organization.
The '''RWD 13''' was a touring plane, developed from a line of sports planes [[RWD 6]] (a winner of [[Challenge 1932]] international touring aircraft contest) and [[RWD 9]] (a winner of [[Challenge 1934]]).<ref name=S>{{cite book |last1=Schmidt |first1=Heinz A. F. |title=Historische Flugzeuge |date=1968 |publisher=Transpress Veb Verlag für Verkehrswessen |location=Berlin |page=127 |language=German}}</ref> It was designed by [[Stanisław Rogalski]] and [[Jerzy Drzewiecki]] of the RWD team, in the DWL workshops (''[[Doświadczalne Warsztaty Lotnicze]]'') in Warsaw, for and order of the [[LOPP]] paramilitary organization.
The prototype was constructed using parts of a broken up [[RWD-6]] (initially it was even supposed to be designated RWD-6bis), but its construction was more similar to newer [[RWD-9]]. It first flew on January 15, 1935 (registration SP-AOA). Since the RWD-13 was not supposed to be a competition plane, the main differences from the RWD-9 were: an [[inline engine (aviation)|inline engine]] with lower power output, instead of a [[radial engine]], and simpler wing mechanization. It still had advantages, like [[STOL|short take-off and landing]] and ease of flying, with good stability. By 1939, some 85 were produced.
The prototype was constructed using parts of a broken up [[RWD 6]] (initially it was even supposed to be designated RWD 6bis), but its construction was more similar to newer [[RWD 9]]. It first flew on 15 January 1935 (registration SP-AOA). Since the RWD 13 was not supposed to be a competition aircraft, the main differences from the RWD 9 were: an [[inline engine (aviation)|inline engine]] with lower power output, instead of a [[radial engine]], and simpler wing mechanization. It still had advantages, like [[STOL|short take-off and landing]] and ease of flying, with good stability. By 1939, some 85 were produced.
[[File:Walter Major 4 a RWD 13.jpg|thumb|RWD 13 with Walter Major 4 (SP-AOA), first flight on January 15, 1935]]
In [[1937 in aviation|1937]] an [[air ambulance]] variant '''RWD 13S''' was built (prototype markings SP-BFN), with a starboard hatch for [[stretchers]] in the fuselage. There was also developed a similar universal variant '''RWD 13TS''' (or ST, or S/T), that could be converted from a touring plane to an ambulance by removing the right-hand seat. By 1939, 15 RWD 13S were made, including a few RWD 13TS. A development of the RWD 13 was the five-seater [[RWD 15]].


A licence was sold to [[Yugoslavia]] in 1938 and made four RWD 13, and two RWD 13s were produced 1939 there by [[Rogožarski]]. All four RWD 13s were converted in 1939 into ambulance RWD 13S aircraft.<ref>Петровић, Огњан М. (3/2004.). "Војни аероплани Краљевине СХС/Југославије (Део II: 1931 – 1941.)" (in (Serbian)). Лет - Flight 3: 42-44. {{ISSN|1450-684X}}.</ref>
In [[1937 in aviation|1937]] an [[air ambulance]] variant '''RWD-13S''' was built (prototype markings SP-BFN), with a starboard hatch for [[stretchers]] in the fuselage. There was also developed a similar universal variant '''RWD-13TS''' (or ST, or S/T), that could be converted from a touring plane to an ambulance by removing the right-hand seat. By 1939, 15 RWD-13S were made, including a few RWD-13TS. A development of the RWD-13 was the five-seater [[RWD-15]].


A flying replica of the RWD 13 is under construction in Poland (as of 2008).
A licence was sold to [[Yugoslavia]] in 1938 and made four RWD-13, and two RWD-13s were produced 1939 there by [[Rogožarski]]. All four RWD-13s were converted in 1939 into ambulance RWD-13S aircraft.<ref>Петровић, Огњан М. (3/2004.). "Војни аероплани Краљевине СХС/Југославије (Део II: 1931 – 1941.)" (in (Serbian)). Лет - Flight 3: 42-44. {{ISSN|1450-684X}}.</ref>

A flying replica of the RWD-13 is under construction in Poland (as of 2008).


===Design===
===Design===
Three-seater sports and touring [[strut]]ted high-wing [[monoplane]] of a mixed construction. A fuselage of a metal frame, covered with [[canvas]], in engine section with [[aluminium]] sheets. Two-spar rectangular wing of wooden construction, covered with canvas and plywood in front. Wings folded rearwards, and were equipped with automatic [[Leading edge slats|slats]]. Cantilever [[empennage]], covered with plywood (stabilizers) and canvas (rudder and elevators). Closed cabin with three seats: two front seats fitted with dual controls, behind them a third seat and a space for a luggage. The cabin had a pair of doors. In RWD-13S there were two seats on the left side, and stretchers on the right. The single engine in front was a 4-cylinder air-cooled inverted straight engine 130&nbsp;hp [[Walter Major]] 4, PZInż. Major (licensed Walter Major), or a [[de Havilland Gipsy Major]]. The propeller was a two-blade wooden Szomański of a fixed pitch. The [[landing gear]] was conventional, with a rear skid. The fuel tanks were in the wings with a capacity of 140 L.<ref name=S/> Fuel consumption of the aircraft was 28 litres/hour.
Three-seater sports and touring [[strut]]ted high-wing [[monoplane]] of a mixed construction. A fuselage of a metal frame, covered with [[canvas]], in engine section with [[aluminium]] sheets. Two-spar rectangular wing of wooden construction, covered with canvas and plywood in front. Wings folded rearwards, and were equipped with automatic [[Leading edge slats|slats]]. Cantilever [[empennage]], covered with plywood (stabilizers) and canvas (rudder and elevators). Closed cabin with three seats: two front seats fitted with dual controls, behind them a third seat and a space for a luggage. The cabin had a pair of doors. In RWD 13S there were two seats on the left side, and stretchers on the right. The single engine in front was a 4-cylinder air-cooled inverted straight engine 130&nbsp;hp [[Walter Major]] 4, PZInż. Major (licensed Walter Major), or a [[de Havilland Gipsy Major]]. The propeller was a two-blade wooden Szomański of a fixed pitch. The [[landing gear]] was conventional, with a rear skid. The fuel tanks were in the wings with a capacity of 140 L.<ref name=S/> Fuel consumption of the aircraft was 28 litres/hour.


==Operational history==
==Operational history==


===Poland===
===Poland===
Most RWD-13s were used by the Polish civilian aviation, initially, the [[Polish Aero Club]] (they were funded by the Ministry of Communication or the [[LOPP]] paramilitary organization - Air and Anti-gas Defence League). Three were used by the Ministry of Communication as utility aircraft, two were used by the [[LOT Polish Airlines]], and several were in hands of private owners and companies.
Most RWD 13s were used by the Polish civilian aviation, initially, the [[Polish Aero Club]] (they were funded by the Ministry of Communication or the [[LOPP]] paramilitary organization - Air and Anti-gas Defence League). Three were used by the Ministry of Communication as utility aircraft, two were used by the [[LOT Polish Airlines]], and several were in hands of private owners and companies.


The Polish Aero Club aircraft were also used for sport flying, taking part in numerous international contests and rallies, taking high places. Among others, they took the 1st, 4th, 6th and 7th places in a touring aircraft competition during the 4th International Air Meeting in [[Zurich]] in 1937. The RWD-13S won a prize of [[Esch-sur-Alzette|Esch]] town for the best air ambulance of an International Ambulance Aircraft Contest in Esch, Luxembourg in July 1938 (the contest itself was won by another Polish plane, the [[LWS-2]]).
The Polish Aero Club aircraft were also used for sport flying, taking part in numerous international contests and rallies, taking high places. Among others, they took the 1st, 4th, 6th and 7th places in a touring aircraft competition during the 4th International Air Meeting in [[Zurich]] in 1937. The RWD 13S won a prize of [[Esch-sur-Alzette|Esch]] town for the best air ambulance of an International Ambulance Aircraft Contest in Esch, Luxembourg in July 1938 (the contest itself was won by another Polish plane, the [[LWS-2]]).


[[File:RWD 13.jpg|thumb|right|RWD-13 'SP-BNU' in the [[Polish Aviation Museum]]]]
[[File:RWD 13.jpg|thumb|right|RWD 13 'SP-BNU' in the [[Polish Aviation Museum]]]]
Most air ambulances RWD-13S belonged to the [[Polish Red Cross]], five to the [[Polish Air Force]], but they carried civilian markings as well. Several (at least five) RWD-13, not counting air ambulances, were mobilized after the start of [[World War II]] and used as [[liaison aircraft]] during the [[Polish September Campaign]]. Some aircraft were evacuated to neighbouring countries, some were destroyed or seized by the Germans.
Most air ambulances RWD 13S belonged to the [[Polish Red Cross]], five to the [[Polish Air Force]], but they carried civilian markings as well. Several (at least five) RWD 13, not counting air ambulances, were mobilized after the start of [[World War II]] and used as [[liaison aircraft]] during the [[Polish September Campaign]]. Some aircraft were evacuated to neighbouring countries, some were destroyed or seized by the Germans.


Most Polish RWD-13 were painted red, with a silver lightning painted on a fuselage and silver wings. RWD-13S were painted in ivory, with [[Red Cross]] markings, while RWD-13TS were painted in ivory, with a red lightning on the fuselage.
Most Polish RWD 13 were painted red, with a silver lightning painted on a fuselage and silver wings. RWD 13S were painted in ivory, with [[Red Cross]] markings, while RWD 13TS were painted in ivory, with a red lightning on the fuselage.


Only four RWD-13 were used in Poland after the war, that were returned by Romania in 1947 (in 1948 the Polish communist government lost interest in all Polish pre-war equipment remaining abroad). They were used until 1953-1955, with registrations: SP-MSZ (owned by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, MSZ in short), SP-ARG, SP-ARH, SP-ARL. SP-ARL is currently preserved in the [[Polish Aviation Museum]] in [[Kraków]], with its pre-war registration SP-BNU (formerly used by [[LOT Polish Airlines]]).
Only four RWD 13 were used in Poland after the war, that were returned by Romania in 1947 (in 1948 the Polish communist government lost interest in all Polish pre-war equipment remaining abroad). They were used until 1953-1955, with registrations: SP-MSZ (owned by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, MSZ in short), SP-ARG, SP-ARH, SP-ARL. SP-ARL is currently preserved in the [[Polish Aviation Museum]] in [[Kraków]], with its pre-war registration SP-BNU (formerly used by [[LOT Polish Airlines]]).


===Spain===
===Spain===
Around 20 RWD-13s were exported before World War II. Four were sold to Spain by [[SEPEWE]] and were used as liaison aircraft by Franco's [[Aviación Nacional]] during the [[Spanish Civil War]], under the name ''Polaca'' (numbers: 30-1 - 30-4). After the civil war, the remaining ones were used in aero clubs.
Around 20 RWD 13s were exported before World War II. Four were sold to Spain by [[SEPEWE]] and were used as liaison aircraft by Franco's [[Aviación Nacional]] during the [[Spanish Civil War]], under the name ''Polaca'' (numbers: 30-1 - 30-4). After the civil war, the remaining ones were used in aero clubs.


===Brasil===
===Brasil===
In 1937-1938, eight RWD-13 were sold to [[Brazil]] and used there until the 1960s. One of them still remains in airworthy condition (PT-LFY).<ref name=bra>[http://www.samoloty.ow.pl/str356.htm Maciej Stefanicki: "Samoloty RWD w Brazylii, Izraelu i USA"]</ref>
In 1937-1938, eight RWD 13 were sold to [[Brazil]] and used there until the 1960s. One of them still remains in airworthy condition (PT-LFY).<ref name="Stefanicki">{{cite web |last1=Stefanicki |first1=Maciej |title=Samoloty RWD w Brazylii, Izraelu i USA |url=http://www.samoloty.ow.pl/str356.htm |website=samoloty.ow |accessdate=30 October 2019 |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20070709054823/http://www.samoloty.ow.pl/str356.htm |archivedate=9 July 2007 |language=Polish}}</ref>


===Palestine/Israel===
===Palestine/Israel===
[[File:RWD 13 - Air dropping supplies to Yehiam, 1948.jpg|thumb|VQ-PAL dropping supplies to isolated [[Yehiam]], northern Palestine, January 1948]]
[[File:RWD 13 - Air dropping supplies to Yehiam, 1948.jpg|thumb|VQ-PAL dropping supplies to isolated [[Yehiam]], northern Palestine, January 1948]]
Two or three RWD-13 were sold to Jewish owners in Palestine. With the formation of the [[Sherut Avir]], the air arm of the [[Haganah]], in November 1947 two were included in its inventory. On 17 December 1947, one of them undertook the first air attack, with hand grenades and handguns, during the Israeli-Arab skirmishes (earlier, on 15 June 1936, an RWD-13 was the first aircraft to land in [[Tel Aviv]]). The two RWD-13s were among the first aircraft of the newly created [[Israeli Air Force]], and were used for liaison and transport during the [[1948 Arab-Israeli War]].<ref name=bra/>
Two or three RWD 13 were sold to Jewish owners in Palestine. With the formation of the [[Sherut Avir]], the air arm of the [[Haganah]], in November 1947 two were included in its inventory. On 17 December 1947, one of them undertook the first air attack, with hand grenades and handguns, during the Israeli-Arab skirmishes (earlier, on 15 June 1936, an RWD 13 was the first aircraft to land in [[Tel Aviv]]). The two RWD 13s were among the first aircraft of the newly created [[Israeli Air Force]], and were used for liaison and transport during the [[1948 Arab-Israeli War]].<ref name="Stefanicki"/>


===Romania===
===Romania===
After the outbreak of World War II, 28 Polish RWD-13 were evacuated to [[Romania]] (23 RWD-13 and 5 RWD-13S). After the fall of Poland, they were taken over by Romanian civil and military aviation. After Romania joined the war on the [[Axis Powers|Axis]] side and took part in the [[Operation Barbarossa|attack on the USSR]], RWD-13 were used as liaison aircraft by the Air Force. Especially famous were air ambulances, used by the "Escadrila Albă" (White Squadron), flown by women. Twenty-one survived the war and the remaining ones were used in Romania until the 1950s.
After the outbreak of World War II, 28 Polish RWD 13 were evacuated to [[Romania]] (23 RWD 13 and 5 RWD 13S). After the fall of Poland, they were taken over by Romanian civil and military aviation. After Romania joined the war on the [[Axis Powers|Axis]] side and took part in the [[Operation Barbarossa|attack on the USSR]], RWD 13 were used as liaison aircraft by the Air Force. Especially famous were air ambulances, used by the "[[Escadrila Albă]]" (White Squadron), flown by women. Twenty-one survived the war and the remaining ones were used in Romania until the 1950s.


===Other countries===
===Other countries===
A single aircraft was used in [[Estonia]]. Two RWD-13, sent to the [[1939 New York World's Fair|World's Fair]], were sold after the outbreak of war in 1939 and used in the United States (N20651 and N20652), where their structure was modified by [[Lt. Joseph Malejki]].<ref>http://www.82fg.org/malejki-joseph-m8725-82fg.cfm</ref> Three (or one) aircraft were sold to [[Yemen]]. Several RWD-13 were evacuated to [[Latvia]] and they were probably later seized by the Soviets.
A single aircraft was used in [[Estonia]]. Two RWD 13, sent to the [[1939 New York World's Fair|World's Fair]], were sold after the outbreak of war in 1939 and used in the United States (N20651 and N20652), where their structure was modified by [[Lt. Joseph Malejki]].<ref name=Malejki>{{cite web |title=Joseph Malejki - WWII Serviceman - 82FG - Squadron |url=http://www.82fg.org/malejki-joseph-m8725-82fg.cfm |website=www.82fg.org |accessdate=30 October 2019}}</ref> Three (or one) aircraft were sold to [[Yemen]]. Several RWD 13 were evacuated to [[Latvia]] and they were probably later seized by the Soviets.


==Operators==
==Operators==
Line 72: Line 72:
*[[Brazilian Air Force]]
*[[Brazilian Air Force]]
;{{EST}}
;{{EST}}
*[[Estonian Air Force]] operated one RWD-13S evacuated in September 1939 to Estonia.
*[[Estonian Air Force]] operated one RWD 13S evacuated in September 1939 to Estonia.
;{{flagcountry|Independent State of Croatia}}
;{{flagcountry|Independent State of Croatia}}
*[[Air Force of the Independent State of Croatia]] 1 ex-[[Royal Yugoslav Air Force]].
*[[Air Force of the Independent State of Croatia]] 1 ex-[[Royal Yugoslav Air Force]].
;{{ISR}}
*[[Sherut Avir]]
;{{flag|Germany|Nazi}}
;{{flag|Germany|Nazi}}
*[[Luftwaffe]] operated captured aircraft.
*[[Luftwaffe]] operated captured aircraft.
;{{ISR}}
*[[Israeli Air Force]] operated 2 RWD-13 aircraft.
;{{POL}}
;{{POL}}
*[[Polish Air Force]]
*[[Polish Air Force]]
Line 84: Line 84:
*[[Royal Romanian Air Force]]
*[[Royal Romanian Air Force]]
**''[[Escadrila Albă]]''
**''[[Escadrila Albă]]''
*[[Transnistria Governorate#Air section|Transnistrian air section]]
;{{SWE}}
;{{SWE}}
*[[Swedish Air Force]] operated single RWD-13 (under the designation '''Tp 11''') evacuated to Sweden in September 1939
*[[Swedish Air Force]] operated single RWD 13 (under the designation '''Tp 11''') evacuated to Sweden in September 1939
;{{flag|Spanish State|1938}}
;{{flag|Spanish State|1938}}
*[[Spanish Air Force]]
*[[Spanish Air Force]]
;{{flagcountry|Kingdom of Yugoslavia}}
;{{flagcountry|Kingdom of Yugoslavia}}
*[[Yugoslav Royal Air Force]] operated Yugoslavian-made two RWD-13s, and two RWD-13S.
*[[Yugoslav Royal Air Force]] operated Yugoslavian-made two RWD 13s, and two RWD 13S.


===Civil operators===
===Civil operators===
;{{EST}}
;{{EST}}
;{{flag|Iran|1925}}
;{{flag|Iran|1925}}
*In May 1939, a single RWD-13 (SP-BNY) was given by the President of Poland to the [[Persia]]n heir [[Mohammed Reza Pahlavi]] as a wedding gift.
*In May 1939, a single RWD 13 (SP-BNY) was given by the President of Poland to the [[Persia]]n heir [[Mohammed Reza Pahlavi]] as a wedding gift.
;{{flag|British Mandate for Palestine}}
;{{flag|British Mandate for Palestine}}
*[[Aviron (airline)|Aviron]] company operated 2 or 3 RWD-13s (registered as VQ-PAL and VQ-PAM) until 1948 when two aircraft were handed over to [[Israeli Air Force]].
*[[Aviron (airline)|Aviron]] company operated 2 or 3 RWD 13s (registered as VQ-PAL and VQ-PAM) until 1948 when two aircraft were handed over to [[Israeli Air Force]].
;{{POL}}
;{{POL}}
*''[[Aeroklub Polski]]''
*''[[Aeroklub Polski]]''
Line 107: Line 108:
;{{flagicon|Yemen|1927}} [[Kingdom of Yemen]]
;{{flagicon|Yemen|1927}} [[Kingdom of Yemen]]
;{{flagcountry|Kingdom of Yugoslavia}}
;{{flagcountry|Kingdom of Yugoslavia}}
*''SU Belgrade'' operated 2 RWD-13 aircraft.<ref>http://www.goldenyears.ukf.net/reg_YU-.htm Civil Aircraft Registar - Yugoslavija</ref>
*''SU Belgrade'' operated 2 RWD 13 aircraft.<ref name=GY>{{cite web |url=http://www.airhistory.org.uk/gy/reg_YU-.html |title=Civil Aircraft Register - Yugoslavia |accessdate=30 October 2019 }}</ref>


==Specifications ==
==Specifications ==
[[File:RWD 13 3views.svg|right|400px]]
[[File:RWD 13 3views.svg|thumb]]
{{Aircraft specs
{{aircraft specifications|
|ref=''Polish aircraft 1893-1939'' <ref name=Cynk>{{cite book |last1=Cynk |first1=Jerzy B |title=Polish aircraft 1893-1939 |publisher=Putnam |date=1971 |isbn=0-370-00085-4 |pages=[https://archive.org/details/polishaircraft1800cynk/page/539 539-546] |url=https://archive.org/details/polishaircraft1800cynk/page/539 }}</ref>
<!-- if you do not understand how to use this template, please ask at [[Wikipedia talk:WikiProject Aircraft]] -->
|prime units?=met
<!-- please answer the following questions -->
<!--
|plane or copter?=plane
General characteristics
|jet or prop?=prop
-->
<!-- Now, fill out the specs. Please include units where appropriate (main comes first, alt in parentheses). If an item doesn't apply, like capacity, leave it blank. For additional lines, end your alt units with )</li> and start a new, fully formatted line with <li> -->
|crew=1 or 2
|ref=Glass, A. (1977), Schmidt, H. (1968)
|capacity=1 or 2 passengers
|crew=one, pilot
|length m=7.85
|capacity=two passengers
|length main=7.85 m
|length note=
|span m=11.6
|length alt=25 ft 9 in
|span main=11.50 m
|span note=
|height m=2.05
|span alt=37 ft 8 in
|height main=2.05 m
|height note=
|wing area sqm=16
|height alt= 6 ft 8 in
|area main=16.00 m²
|wing area note=
|aspect ratio=<!-- sailplanes -->
|area alt= 172 ft²
|airfoil=IAW-192 (PZL-DJ3)<ref name="Selig">{{cite web |last1=Lednicer |first1=David |title=The Incomplete Guide to Airfoil Usage |url=https://m-selig.ae.illinois.edu/ads/aircraft.html |website=m-selig.ae.illinois.edu |accessdate=16 April 2019}}</ref>
|empty weight main= 530 kg
|empty weight alt= 1,166 lb
|empty weight kg=530
|loaded weight main= 890 kg
|empty weight note=
|loaded weight alt=1,958 lb
|gross weight kg=890
|max takeoff weight main= 930 kg
|gross weight note=
|max takeoff weight alt=2,046 lb
|max takeoff weight kg=930
|max takeoff weight note=
|engine (prop)=PZInż [[Walter Major]]
|fuel capacity={{cvt|140|L|USgal impgal}} in wing root tanks
|type of prop= air-cooled 4-cylinder inline engine
|more general=
|number of props=1
<!--
|power main=130 hp
Powerplant
|power alt= 96 kW
-->
|max speed main=210 km/h
|eng1 number=1
|max speed alt= 113 knots, 130 mph
|eng1 name=[[PZInż-Walter Major]]
|cruise speed main=180 km/h
|eng1 type=4-cylinder air-cooled inverted in-line piston engine
|cruise speed alt=
|eng1 hp=120-130
|range main=900 km
|eng1 note=<br>
|range alt= 486 nm, 600 mi
::::or similar engines such as [[Walter Major]] or [[de Havilland Gipsy Major I]]
|ceiling main=4,200 m

|ceiling alt=13,776 ft
|prop blade number=2
|climb rate main= 3.8 m/s
|prop name=[[Szomański]] fixed-pitch wooden propeller
|climb rate alt= 748 ft/min
|prop dia m=<!-- propeller aircraft -->
|loading main= 55.5 kg/m²
|prop dia note=
|loading alt= 11.35 lb/ft²
<!--
|power/mass main=
Performance
|power/mass alt=
-->
|max speed kmh=210
|max speed note=at sea level
|cruise speed kmh=180
|cruise speed note=<br>
*'''Landing speed:''' {{cvt|67|km/h|mph kn}}
|stall speed kmh=
|stall speed note=
|never exceed speed kmh=
|never exceed speed note=
|range km=900
|range note=
|combat range km=
|combat range note=
|ferry range km=
|ferry range note=
|endurance=<!-- if range unknown -->
|ceiling m=4200
|ceiling note=
|g limits=<!-- aerobatic -->
|roll rate=<!-- aerobatic -->
|climb rate ms=3.8
|climb rate note={{citation needed|date=October 2019}}
|time to altitude={{cvt|1000|m}} in 4 minutes 20 seconds
|wing loading kg/m2=55.6
|wing loading note=
|fuel consumption kg/km=
|power/mass={{cvt|0.066|hp/lb|order=flip}}
|more performance=<!--</br>
*'''Take-off run:''' {{cvt|m|0}}
*'''Take-off run to {{cvt|15|m|0}}:''' {{cvt|m|0}}
*'''Landing run:''' {{cvt|m|0}}
*'''Landing run from {{cvt|15|m|0}}:''' {{cvt|m|0}}-->
}}
}}


Line 158: Line 192:
{{aircontent|
{{aircontent|
|related=
|related=
*[[RWD-6]]
*[[RWD 6]]
*[[RWD-9]]
*[[RWD 9]]
*[[RWD-15]]
*[[RWD 15]]
*[[RWD-20]]
*[[RWD 20]]
|similar aircraft=<!-- similar or comparable aircraft -->
|similar aircraft=<!-- similar or comparable aircraft -->
*[[de Havilland Puss Moth]]
*[[de Havilland Puss Moth]]
Line 169: Line 203:
* [[List of aircraft of World War II]]
* [[List of aircraft of World War II]]
|see also=<!-- other relevant information -->
|see also=<!-- other relevant information -->
*[[RWD-8]]
*[[RWD 8]]
}}
}}


==References==
==References==

===Notes===
{{reflist}}
{{reflist}}


===Bibliography===
==Bibliography==
*{{cite journal |last1=Arraez Cerda|first1=Juan|title=Les avions polonais de l'aviation nationaliste: PWS-10 et RWD-13|journal=Avions: Toute l'Aéronautique et son histoire |date=December 2001 |issue=105 |pages=38–43 |trans-title=Polish Aircraft of the Nationalist Air Force: The PWS-10 and RWD-13|language=fr |issn=1243-8650}}
*Glass, Andrzej: "Polskie konstrukcje lotnicze 1893-1939" (''Polish aviation constructions 1893-1939''), WKiŁ, Warsaw 1977, p.&nbsp;313-318 {{pl icon}}

*Schmidt, Heinz A. F.: "Historische Flugzeuge", Berlin: Transpress Veb Verlag für Verkehrswessen, 1968, p.&nbsp;127 {{de icon}}
==Further reading==
*{{cite journal
* {{cite book |last1=Glass |first1=Andrzej |title=Polskie konstrukcje lotnicze 1893–1939 |date=1977 |publisher=WKiŁ |location=Warsaw |pages=313–318 |language=Polish}}
| last = Петровић
| first = Огњан М.
*{{cite journal | last=Петровић |first=Огњан М.
| coauthors =
| date = 2004
| date = 2004
| title = Војни аероплани Краљевине СХС/Југославије (Део II: 1931 – 1941.)
| title = Војни аероплани Краљевине СХС/Југославије (Део II: 1931 – 1941.)
Line 193: Line 224:
| issn = 1450-684X
| issn = 1450-684X
| pages = 42–44
| pages = 42–44
}}
| chapter =
}}
*[http://www.samoloty.ow.pl/str353.htm Andrzej Glass: "Samoloty RWD-13 w Rumunii"] {{pl icon}}
*[http://www.samoloty.ow.pl/str356.htm Maciej Stefanicki: "Samoloty RWD w Brazylii, Izraelu i USA"] {{pl icon}}


==External links==
==External links==
{{commons category|RWD-13}}
{{commons category|RWD 13}}
*[http://www.airwar.ru/enc/law1/rwd13.html Photos and drawings of RWD-13] and [http://www.airwar.ru/enc/law1/rwd13s.html RWD-13S] at [http://www.airwar.ru Ugolok Neba] site
*[http://www.airwar.ru/enc/law1/rwd13.html Photos and drawings of RWD 13] and [http://www.airwar.ru/enc/law1/rwd13s.html RWD 13S] at [http://www.airwar.ru Ugolok Neba] site
*[http://www.goldenyears.ukf.net/reg_YU-.htm Civil Aircraft Register - Yugoslavija]
*[https://web.archive.org/web/20120711012651/http://www.goldenyears.ukf.net/reg_YU-.htm Civil Aircraft Register - Yugoslavija]
*[https://web.archive.org/web/20070702074127/http://www.samoloty.ow.pl/str353.htm Andrzej Glass: "Samoloty RWD 13 w Rumunii"] {{in lang|pl}}
*[https://web.archive.org/web/20070709054823/http://www.samoloty.ow.pl/str356.htm Maciej Stefanicki: "Samoloty RWD w Brazylii, Izraelu i USA"] {{in lang|pl}}

{{RWD aircraft}}
{{RWD aircraft}}


[[Category:Polish civil utility aircraft 1930–1939]]
[[Category:1930s Polish civil utility aircraft]]
[[Category:RWD aircraft]]
[[Category:RWD aircraft]]
[[Category:High-wing aircraft]]
[[Category:High-wing aircraft]]

Revision as of 16:19, 27 June 2024

RWD-13
RWD 13 in the Polish Aviation Museum
Role Touring plane
National origin Polen
Manufacturer DWL Poland and Rogozarski Yugoslavia
Designer RWD team
First flight 15 January 1935
Einführung 1935
Primary users Poland
Yugoslavia
Romania
Brazil
Produced 1935-1939
Number built approx. 100
Developed from RWD-9

The RWD 13 was a Polish touring plane of 1935, three-seater high-wing monoplane, designed by the RWD team. It was the biggest commercial success of the RWD.

Development

The RWD 13 was a touring plane, developed from a line of sports planes RWD 6 (a winner of Challenge 1932 international touring aircraft contest) and RWD 9 (a winner of Challenge 1934).[1] It was designed by Stanisław Rogalski and Jerzy Drzewiecki of the RWD team, in the DWL workshops (Doświadczalne Warsztaty Lotnicze) in Warsaw, for and order of the LOPP paramilitary organization. The prototype was constructed using parts of a broken up RWD 6 (initially it was even supposed to be designated RWD 6bis), but its construction was more similar to newer RWD 9. It first flew on 15 January 1935 (registration SP-AOA). Since the RWD 13 was not supposed to be a competition aircraft, the main differences from the RWD 9 were: an inline engine with lower power output, instead of a radial engine, and simpler wing mechanization. It still had advantages, like short take-off and landing and ease of flying, with good stability. By 1939, some 85 were produced.

RWD 13 with Walter Major 4 (SP-AOA), first flight on January 15, 1935

In 1937 an air ambulance variant RWD 13S was built (prototype markings SP-BFN), with a starboard hatch for stretchers in the fuselage. There was also developed a similar universal variant RWD 13TS (or ST, or S/T), that could be converted from a touring plane to an ambulance by removing the right-hand seat. By 1939, 15 RWD 13S were made, including a few RWD 13TS. A development of the RWD 13 was the five-seater RWD 15.

A licence was sold to Yugoslavia in 1938 and made four RWD 13, and two RWD 13s were produced 1939 there by Rogožarski. All four RWD 13s were converted in 1939 into ambulance RWD 13S aircraft.[2]

A flying replica of the RWD 13 is under construction in Poland (as of 2008).

Design

Three-seater sports and touring strutted high-wing monoplane of a mixed construction. A fuselage of a metal frame, covered with canvas, in engine section with aluminium sheets. Two-spar rectangular wing of wooden construction, covered with canvas and plywood in front. Wings folded rearwards, and were equipped with automatic slats. Cantilever empennage, covered with plywood (stabilizers) and canvas (rudder and elevators). Closed cabin with three seats: two front seats fitted with dual controls, behind them a third seat and a space for a luggage. The cabin had a pair of doors. In RWD 13S there were two seats on the left side, and stretchers on the right. The single engine in front was a 4-cylinder air-cooled inverted straight engine 130 hp Walter Major 4, PZInż. Major (licensed Walter Major), or a de Havilland Gipsy Major. The propeller was a two-blade wooden Szomański of a fixed pitch. The landing gear was conventional, with a rear skid. The fuel tanks were in the wings with a capacity of 140 L.[1] Fuel consumption of the aircraft was 28 litres/hour.

Operational history

Polen

Most RWD 13s were used by the Polish civilian aviation, initially, the Polish Aero Club (they were funded by the Ministry of Communication or the LOPP paramilitary organization - Air and Anti-gas Defence League). Three were used by the Ministry of Communication as utility aircraft, two were used by the LOT Polish Airlines, and several were in hands of private owners and companies.

The Polish Aero Club aircraft were also used for sport flying, taking part in numerous international contests and rallies, taking high places. Among others, they took the 1st, 4th, 6th and 7th places in a touring aircraft competition during the 4th International Air Meeting in Zurich in 1937. The RWD 13S won a prize of Esch town for the best air ambulance of an International Ambulance Aircraft Contest in Esch, Luxembourg in July 1938 (the contest itself was won by another Polish plane, the LWS-2).

RWD 13 'SP-BNU' in the Polish Aviation Museum

Most air ambulances RWD 13S belonged to the Polish Red Cross, five to the Polish Air Force, but they carried civilian markings as well. Several (at least five) RWD 13, not counting air ambulances, were mobilized after the start of World War II and used as liaison aircraft during the Polish September Campaign. Some aircraft were evacuated to neighbouring countries, some were destroyed or seized by the Germans.

Most Polish RWD 13 were painted red, with a silver lightning painted on a fuselage and silver wings. RWD 13S were painted in ivory, with Red Cross markings, while RWD 13TS were painted in ivory, with a red lightning on the fuselage.

Only four RWD 13 were used in Poland after the war, that were returned by Romania in 1947 (in 1948 the Polish communist government lost interest in all Polish pre-war equipment remaining abroad). They were used until 1953-1955, with registrations: SP-MSZ (owned by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, MSZ in short), SP-ARG, SP-ARH, SP-ARL. SP-ARL is currently preserved in the Polish Aviation Museum in Kraków, with its pre-war registration SP-BNU (formerly used by LOT Polish Airlines).

Spanien

Around 20 RWD 13s were exported before World War II. Four were sold to Spain by SEPEWE and were used as liaison aircraft by Franco's Aviación Nacional during the Spanish Civil War, under the name Polaca (numbers: 30-1 - 30-4). After the civil war, the remaining ones were used in aero clubs.

Brasilien

In 1937-1938, eight RWD 13 were sold to Brazil and used there until the 1960s. One of them still remains in airworthy condition (PT-LFY).[3]

Palestine/Israel

VQ-PAL dropping supplies to isolated Yehiam, northern Palestine, January 1948

Two or three RWD 13 were sold to Jewish owners in Palestine. With the formation of the Sherut Avir, the air arm of the Haganah, in November 1947 two were included in its inventory. On 17 December 1947, one of them undertook the first air attack, with hand grenades and handguns, during the Israeli-Arab skirmishes (earlier, on 15 June 1936, an RWD 13 was the first aircraft to land in Tel Aviv). The two RWD 13s were among the first aircraft of the newly created Israeli Air Force, and were used for liaison and transport during the 1948 Arab-Israeli War.[3]

Rumänien

After the outbreak of World War II, 28 Polish RWD 13 were evacuated to Romania (23 RWD 13 and 5 RWD 13S). After the fall of Poland, they were taken over by Romanian civil and military aviation. After Romania joined the war on the Axis side and took part in the attack on the USSR, RWD 13 were used as liaison aircraft by the Air Force. Especially famous were air ambulances, used by the "Escadrila Albă" (White Squadron), flown by women. Twenty-one survived the war and the remaining ones were used in Romania until the 1950s.

Other countries

A single aircraft was used in Estonia. Two RWD 13, sent to the World's Fair, were sold after the outbreak of war in 1939 and used in the United States (N20651 and N20652), where their structure was modified by Lt. Joseph Malejki.[4] Three (or one) aircraft were sold to Yemen. Several RWD 13 were evacuated to Latvia and they were probably later seized by the Soviets.

Operators

Military operators

 Brasilien
 Estland
 Kroatien
 Israel
 Deutschland
 Polen
 Rumänien
 Schweden
  • Swedish Air Force operated single RWD 13 (under the designation Tp 11) evacuated to Sweden in September 1939
 Spanish State
 Yugoslavia

Civil operators

 Estland
 Iran
 British Mandate for Palestine
  • Aviron company operated 2 or 3 RWD 13s (registered as VQ-PAL and VQ-PAM) until 1948 when two aircraft were handed over to Israeli Air Force.
 Polen
 Rumänien
 Spanish State
 Schweden
  • After the war ex-Swedish Air Force aircraft was used with civilian markings SE-AOF until 1951.
 Vereinigte Staaten
Jemen Kingdom of Yemen
 Yugoslavia
  • SU Belgrade operated 2 RWD 13 aircraft.[5]

Specifications

Data from Polish aircraft 1893-1939 [6]

General characteristics

  • Crew: 1 or 2
  • Capacity: 1 or 2 passengers
  • Length: 7.85 m (25 ft 9 in)
  • Wingspan: 11.6 m (38 ft 1 in)
  • Height: 2.05 m (6 ft 9 in)
  • Wing area: 16 m2 (170 sq ft)
  • Airfoil: IAW-192 (PZL-DJ3)[7]
  • Empty weight: 530 kg (1,168 lb)
  • Gross weight: 890 kg (1,962 lb)
  • Max takeoff weight: 930 kg (2,050 lb)
  • Fuel capacity: 140 L (37 US gal; 31 imp gal) in wing root tanks
  • Powerplant: 1 × PZInż-Walter Major 4-cylinder air-cooled inverted in-line piston engine, 89–97 kW (120–130 hp)
or similar engines such as Walter Major or de Havilland Gipsy Major I
  • Propellers: 2-bladed Szomański fixed-pitch wooden propeller

Performance

  • Maximum speed: 210 km/h (130 mph, 110 kn) at sea level
  • Cruise speed: 180 km/h (110 mph, 97 kn)
  • Landing speed: 67 km/h (42 mph; 36 kn)
  • Range: 900 km (560 mi, 490 nmi)
  • Service ceiling: 4,200 m (13,800 ft)
  • Rate of climb: 3.8 m/s (750 ft/min) [citation needed]
  • Time to altitude: 1,000 m (3,300 ft) in 4 minutes 20 seconds
  • Wing loading: 55.6 kg/m2 (11.4 lb/sq ft)
  • Power/mass: 0.109 kW/kg (0.066 hp/lb)

See also

Related development

Aircraft of comparable role, configuration, and era

Related lists

References

  1. ^ a b Schmidt, Heinz A. F. (1968). Historische Flugzeuge (in German). Berlin: Transpress Veb Verlag für Verkehrswessen. p. 127.
  2. ^ Петровић, Огњан М. (3/2004.). "Војни аероплани Краљевине СХС/Југославије (Део II: 1931 – 1941.)" (in (Serbian)). Лет - Flight 3: 42-44. ISSN 1450-684X.
  3. ^ a b Stefanicki, Maciej. "Samoloty RWD w Brazylii, Izraelu i USA". samoloty.ow (in Polish). Archived from the original on 9 July 2007. Retrieved 30 October 2019.
  4. ^ "Joseph Malejki - WWII Serviceman - 82FG - Squadron". www.82fg.org. Retrieved 30 October 2019.
  5. ^ "Civil Aircraft Register - Yugoslavia". Retrieved 30 October 2019.
  6. ^ Cynk, Jerzy B (1971). Polish aircraft 1893-1939. Putnam. pp. 539-546. ISBN 0-370-00085-4.
  7. ^ Lednicer, David. "The Incomplete Guide to Airfoil Usage". m-selig.ae.illinois.edu. Retrieved 16 April 2019.

Bibliography

  • Arraez Cerda, Juan (December 2001). "Les avions polonais de l'aviation nationaliste: PWS-10 et RWD-13" [Polish Aircraft of the Nationalist Air Force: The PWS-10 and RWD-13]. Avions: Toute l'Aéronautique et son histoire (in French) (105): 38–43. ISSN 1243-8650.

Further reading

  • Glass, Andrzej (1977). Polskie konstrukcje lotnicze 1893–1939 (in Polish). Warsaw: WKiŁ. pp. 313–318.
  • Петровић, Огњан М. (2004). "Војни аероплани Краљевине СХС/Југославије (Део II: 1931 – 1941.)". Лет - Flight (in Serbian). 3. -{YU}--Београд: Музеј југословенског ваздухопловства: 42–44. ISSN 1450-684X.
Wikimedia Commons has media related to RWD 13.
Retrieved from "https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=RWD_13&oldid=1231302910"