Martlets' identities?
 

Hi guys

I am endeavouring to find the British serial numbers of two Martlets of 805 Squadron in 1941:

23 July 1941: Bu3890 ditched

28 December 1941: Bu3895 or 3898 shot down.

Cheers
Brian

Re: Martlets' identities?
 

Hello Brian,

Details from AB's FAA Aircraft 1939-1945.

Seems that these aircraft were part of the Greek order that was delivered to the Middle East and then diverted to the Royal Navy at Suez in April 41. Bu Aer Nos: 3875 to 3904, c/n's 757 to 786.
Survivors were believed numbered in the "AX" series so may have been between "AX757" to "AX786" ?

So if the numbers were used and if they ran in sequence -
3890 would become 772 and then AX772.[ this number was used for a captured Me110].
3895 would become 777 and then AX777.[This number was used for a CaudronC.620].
3898 would become 780 and then AX780.

BUT, AB's AA100-AZ999 has:
AX725-747;AX753,754;AX761;AX824-829 for Martlet I's.

I think it more likely that they just might have only carried the Bu Aer Nos ?

Alex

Re: Martlets' identities?
 

Air Britain is confused over the Greek aircraft, and the Martlet III. I have seen a more recent attempt to clarify matters but didn't make notes... sorry. I don't believe that they ran in sequence, however. Possibly this can be found on one of the modelling sites, Britmodeller? Retaining the Bu No would seem unlikely after repainting. I think (unsure) that although there is a photo showing one aircraft with the Bu No on the side, but there are others showing British serials.

Re: Martlets' identities?
 

This website discusses the Greek Martlet's.

http://www.clubhyper.com/reference/wildcatfaaba_1.htm

Re: Martlets' identities?
 

Thanks guys

At least I am now better informed regarding the Martlet!

Cheers
Brian