Bristol Jupiter

History

The Bristol F.2 biplane, originally used in World War I, was combined with Bristol "Jupiter" engines in a 1924 design attempt to increase speed without a complete overhaul. This effort resulted in just 26 upgraded planes, which were primarily employed for training by the British and Swedish Air Forces. The Type 76 design, based on the 425 hp Jupiter IV series engine, underwent modifications from post-war F.2 aircraft and took its maiden flight in June 1923. However, a crash in November the same year highlighted engine issues.

Recognizing the Type 76's limitations as a fighter due to its range and performance, it was adapted into the Type 89, an advanced two-seat trainer. This version saw nine production iterations before being refined into the Type 89A, featuring hull structure enhancements. A mere 15 units of the Type 89A were manufactured. The Type 89 served as a British trainer until its retirement in 1933.

Physically, the aircraft spans 25 feet in length, boasts a 39.2-foot wingspan, and stands 9 feet tall. Weighing 2,325 pounds without fuel, it reaches a maximum takeoff weight of 3,250 pounds. In terms of performance, the Type 89 achieves a top speed of 110 mph and a cruise speed of approximately 95 mph, covering a range of 340 miles. It is capable of flying up to 22,150 feet using its 320 hp Bristol Jupiter IV radial engine.

Specification

BASICS

Year of Operation: 1924

Origins: UK

Crew: 2

Production: 26

Manufacturer: Bristol Aircraft Company - UK

Carrier: Sweden; UK

Roles

Air-to-air combat, fighter

The general ability to actively attack other aircraft of similar form and function, usually using guns, missiles and/or airborne missiles.

X-Plane (development, prototype, tech demo)

Aircraft designed for prototyping, technology demonstration, or research/data collection.

Education (General)

Develop the ability to become a dedicated student pilot instructor (usually under the supervision of an instructor).

Dimensions and Weight

Length: 25. 0 feet (7.62m)

Width/span: 39. 3 feet (11.97m)

Height: 9.0ft (2.75m)

Cured weight: 2,337 lbs (1,060 kg)

MTOW: 3,263 lbs (1,480 kg)

Wgt Difference: +926 lbs (+420kg)

Main surface structure

Biplane

The design features a biplane wing arrangement with one main plane element on top of the other. Biplanes have improved agility at the expense of increased drag.

Up and down

Two main aircraft configurations where elements are stacked and positioned at different points on the fuselage.

Straight

Floor plans involve the use of simple, straight main plan elements.

Performance

Installed: 1 x Bristol Jupiter IV 320hp 9-cylinder radial piston air-cooled engine driving a propeller unit mounted in front of the two blades.

Max Speed: 110 mph (177 kph | 96 kts)

Ceiling: 22,146 ft (6,750 m | 4 mi)

Range: 360 mi (580 km | 1,074 nm)

VARIANTS

Type 76A - Prototype with bi-fuel Jupiter engine installation; becoming Type 89 design.

Type 76B ("Swedish Fighter") - Evaluation fighter for Swedish Air Force usage; single example.

Type 89 - Twin-seat, dual-control trainer variant; nine examples built based on Type 76A.

Type 89A - Revised fuselage construction; fifteen examples completed.