Photo Bleriot Aircraft

[Stig Jarlevik]

This is most likely the prototype (this one was photographed quite a bit).

I have seen at least three different ones, but the photo numbers range between 70232-70237,
so probably at least six were taken.

Twelve were reportedly built but I have not seen any photo of the seven reported as delivered
to the French Army.

The only well documented XXI is the one which went to Britain.

The Romanian XXI is reasonably covered by Dan Antoniu and said to have been bought by
Liga Nationala Aeriena in 1911 and used in their Scoala de Pilotaj and wfu in 1916
The photo shows it to have roundels under its wings. Letters AR on the fin and a name on
its side, 'Gheorge Gr. Cantacxxx (the xxx are two or three letters hidden by
the prop....

Nothing on those which went to Bulgaria and Russia. The photos of a XXI which is shown
in Air Power of the Kingdom of Bulgaria, actually show a Type XI

Cheers
Stig

PS: The last name is actually Cantacuzino

[musec04]

Thanks for the reply Stig.In many ways more than I was hoping for,which is a good thing


When I posted the question I was hoping for photos of the French military machines,lets hope some turn up at some stage. But good to know about the Romanian machine which was not even on my radar.


Regards,


Clint

[Stig Jarlevik]

Originally Posted by musec04

When I posted the question I was hoping for photos of the French military machines,lets hope some turn up at some stage.
Regards,
Clint

It is a bit odd don't you think Clint, that not a single photo has yet come to light?

Were they ordered and later cancelled?
After all, the side-by-side seating cannot have been ideal for military purposes at the time.

Cheers
Stig

[musec04]

That was kind of where I was going with this question. I would be happy to change my mind if the evidence changes. But distinctly odd that there is no photo of a Bleriot XXI in french military markings.Also which unit would have operated them.Any quick reference on the breakdown of French units prior to say 1912 that you're aware of?


Edit sorry that last part is not clear. Is there anything published saying unit a based at location b operated x amount of aircraft c for each the units of the french military prior to the establishment of the first escadrilles,a kind of order of battle I suppose.?



Regards,


Clint

[Stig Jarlevik]

Sorry Clint

Nothing on French units before 1912....

Cheers
Stig

[musec04]

Hello,


Currently on ebay is a nice photo of Bleriot XI-2 Bl.239 of escadrille BL 18.


https://www.ebay.fr/itm/355494857469...gAAOSw4Shl3M2T


Regards,


Clint