Handley Page O/400 Bomber Hat

The Handley Page O/400 was a behemoth of the skies during World War I, marking a significant leap in aerial warfare capabilities. As a successor to the O/100, the O/400 boasted enhanced range, payload, and defensive armaments, making it a formidable force in the Royal Air Force's strategic bombing campaign. Operational from 1918, these giants were powered by two Rolls-Royce Eagle engines, enabling them to carry up to 2,000 pounds of bombs deep into enemy territory. With a wingspan that rivaled contemporary bombers, the O/400 could reach speeds of up to 97.5 mph and had a service ceiling of 6,500 feet. Its introduction shifted the tides of air combat, emphasizing the importance of strategic bombing in modern warfare. The O/400's legacy is not just in its immediate impact, but in laying the groundwork for future generations of long-range bombers. It served not only the Royal Air Force but also saw service with the Australian Flying Corps, showcasing its versatility and reliability across different theaters of war.

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