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Aviation History
1927
1927 - 0018.PDF
JANUARY 13, 1927 A CZECHOSLOVAK ALL-METAL TWO-SEATER The Vojenska-Smolik S. 16 AMONG the machines exhibited at the Paris Aero Show recently was an all-metal two-seater incorporating forms of construction of somewhat unusual type. This was the Vojenska Smolik 16, a long-distance reconnaissance biplane with 450 h.p. Lorraine-Dietrich engine. It was not possible to give a very detailed description of machines exhibited in are the same in both cases, only the equipment (and certain minor alterations) being different. Aerodynamically the S.16 is an orthodox biplane, the only unusual feature being that in spite of a wing span of 15-5 m. (50 ft. 10 ins.), but a single pair of interplane struts are provided on each side. The chord is relatively narrow, giving the wings a high AN ALL-METAL CZECHOSLOVAK MACHINE : The Vojenska-Smolik S.16 is a long-distance reconnaissance two-seater or day bomber. Three-quarter front view. Paris, but it is thought that a reference to the Vojenska S.16 may be of interest in showing how one Czechoslovak firm attacks the problems of metal construction. It should be pointed out, for the benefit of those wrho are not already aware of the fact, that the Vojenska Tovarna Na Letadla of Prague, is the Czechoslovak Military Aircraft Factory, and therefore corresponds somewhat closely to our own Farnborough establishment as it was when it was called the Royal Aircraft Factory. The Vojenska S.16 is produced in two forms, the parent type being a long-distance reconnaissance machine, while the type 16b is a day-bomber. The constructional details aspect ratio (the " span-loading/' or span square divided by weight) is 0-52 in British units. The great length of unsupported spar, or free spar lengths, is somewhat relieved by a form of strut bracing used in England mainly on torpedo 'planes. As regards its main structure the S.16 is of mixed con- struction in that the fuselage is of steel tube construction while the wings are of Duralumin. All surface covering is in the form of doped fabric. The fuselage is composed of three separate units—the front portion in which is comprised the engine mounting, etc., a middle portion containing the two cockpits, and the tail THE VOJENSKA S.16 : On the left, the all-metal tail, and on the right a front view of the fuselage in skeleton. 18
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