Pictured is the Fischer SeaFury FB11 TG 117 in the markings of the WWE (Winter Weather Establishment) at Namao (Edmonton), Alberta. This aircraft has been referred to as an F 10 by some sources. However, TG117 came from the first production batch of Sea Fury FB11's. The contract for 150 aircraft was issued on 28/8/1944 and was later reduced to 50 aircraft, of which Canada received 26. TG117 was taken on charge by Canada on May 24, 1948 and issued to 803 Squadron as BC-A. It was issued to the WWE on June 4, 1948 and was destroyed in a crash at Watson Lake, Yukon on January 30, 1951. Confusion as to the mark of this aircraft may have arisen because two Sea Fury F10's were issued to the WWE. TF901 and TF909 were from the batch of 50 Sea Fury F 10's built. TF 901 was on loan from the Royal Navy and was destroyed within a month of arrival in Canada and was replaced by TG117.
TF909 replaced TF901 and instead of being returned to the UK, the RCD Director of Naval Services acquired the aircraft as an instructional airframe (F.10). It may have been sent for overhaul but unknown and ended up at HMCS York as an instructional airframe around 1949-50 according to photos. Eventual fate of HMCS York's airframes is still a mystery and this included Seafire PR434 and Swordfish DK790.
ReplyDelete