Canada's Naval History

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First World War (1914-1918)
Canadians in the Royal Naval Air Service

Among the Canadians serving with the Royal Navy were those in its aviation branch, the Royal Naval Air Service (RNAS). They included aces and future leaders of the Royal Canadian Air Force. The dangers they faced included the enemy, the elements, and their own unreliable aircraft.

Artifact Record

Model, Felixstowe F2A

This model of a Felixstowe F2A represents a type of flying boat used by the Royal Naval Air Service in patrols against U-Boats, Zeppelins (airships), and German bombers.

The RNAS used the manoeuvrable Felixstowe F2A as a patrol aircraft, particularly over the North Sea, where it fought enemy patrol and fighter aircraft and hunted submarines. The F2A also flew defensive missions against Zeppelins and bombers seeking to attack British cities and towns.

Model Flying Boat, Felixstowe F2A
CWM 19580002-001