Curtiss Model S

The Model S was Curtiss' first attempt at a fast and maneuverable single-seat fighter. The first variant, S-1, had disappointing performance. In March 1917, new wings were attached to the S-1 fuselage and the project was redesignated S-2. In 1917, the S-3 became the first triplane in service in the United States. In 1918 and 1919, Curtiss experimented with seaplane versions of the S-3, designated S-4 and S-5. The S-6 was intended to be an improved S-3, but performance was poor and of the 12 ordered by the USASC, only 1 was delivered.[1]

The sole Curtiss S-1 mounted on a truck for an Independence Day parade in New York City

S-1 Speed Scout

Biplane, unarmed

S-2 Wireless

Curtiss S-2 Wireless Speed Scout. Photo from Aviation and Aeronautical Engineering August 15,1916

Biplane, updated S-1 lacked wing wires. First flight in March 1917.

S-3

Model 10 - Triplane derived from S-2. Four built.[2]

S-4

Model 10A - Seaplane version of S-3 with 2 main floats

S-5

Model 10B - Seaplane version of S-3 with 1 main central float and two wingtip floats.

S-6

Model 10C - Triplane, improved S-3

Data from [1]

General characteristics

• Crew: 1
• Length: 19 ft 6 in (5.94 m)
• Wingspan: 25 ft 0 in (7.62 m)
• Height: 8 ft 7 in (2.62 m)
• Wing area: 142.6 sq ft (13.25 m²)
• Empty weight: 970 lb (440 kg)
• Gross weight: 1,320 lb (599 kg)
• Powerplant: 1 × Curtiss OXX-3 , 100 hp (75 kW)

Performance

• Maximum speed: 115 mph (185 km/h, 100 kn)
• Service ceiling: 16,500 ft (5,029 m)

Wikimedia Commons has media related to Curtiss S-3.

Bibliography

• Angelucci, Enzo (1987). The American Fighter from 1917 to the present. New York: Orion Books.
• Bowers, Peter M. (1979). Curtiss Aircraft 1907–1947. London: Putnam. ISBN 0-370-10029-8.