Armstrong Whitworth Siskin Country: UK Type: Fighter Manufacturer: Armstrong Whitworth Service: 1924 - 1932 First Flight: May 1919 Production: 272

The Armstrong Whitworth Siskin was a British biplane single-seat fighter aircraft of the 1920s produced by Armstrong Whitworth Aircraft. The Siskin was one of the first RAF fighters designed after the First World War; it was noted for its aerobatic qualities.

The design was a development of the Siddeley-Deasy S.R.2 Siskin. In 1920, Siddeley-Deasy merged with Armstrong Whitworth, with the aviation interests combined as Armstrong Whitworth Aircraft.

As well as re-engining with the Jaguar, the Siskin was re-designed with an all steel structure, as the Siskin III. The Siskin III first flew on 7 May 1923, with first deliveries to the RAF (six for evaluation) taking place in January 1924. The fighter was the first all-metal fighter in the British Royal Air Force.

The first Siskin IIIs were delivered to No. 41 Squadron RAF at RAF Northolt in May 1924, quickly followed by No. 111 Squadron RAF. The Siskin III was popular in service, being an excellent aerobatic platform, although slightly underpowered. The improved Siskin IIIA was first delivered to No. 111 Squadron in September 1926. The Siskin was used by 11 RAF squadrons. The last operational RAF squadron used the Siskin until October 1932 when it was replaced by the Bristol Bulldog.

Canada, Estonia and Sweden also purchased Siskin fighters. None were used in the Second World War.

General characteristics