Description

The wyvern was a mythical monster with the front legs of a dragon and the barbed tail of a snake. The Westland Wyvern was the last fixed-wing aircraft design from the Westland Aircraft Co. and was one of the last prop-driven fighters. It was a very large airplane that was about the same weight as a DC-3 but larger than—and twice as powerful as—a P-47 Thunderbolt. Its twin contra-rotating props certainly gave it the same mean appearance as its fictional predecessor. Four converted and 87 new-built aircraft were delivered of the most important Wyvern version, the TF.4, later renamed S.4. The TF.4 had numerous small changes. The recognition characteristic was the cut-off engine inlet, the propeller spinner then protruding much further forward. Small rectangular fins were added to the tailplane, changes were made to the ailerons, Martin-Baker Mk. 2B ejection seats were installed, and the cockpit was reinforced. Later modifications included perforated dive brakes, a flat windscreen, and provisions for tip tanks. Wyvern units were 827, 813, 830 and 831. In November 1956 the 830 and 831 Squadron took part in the Suez campaign.