Aero Ae.03

In 1921, Aero introduced the Aero Ae 03, a pioneering military reconnaissance aircraft prototype from Czechoslovakia.

Unlike Aero’s previous designs, which were based on licenced models from World War I, the Ae 03 showcased an innovative monoplane design.

The aircraft was intended to be equipped with an early turbocharger, but as the project advanced, it became evident that the final product would exceed the weight limits set by the Czech Air Force specifications.

Consequently, a redesign was deemed unfeasible, leading to the suspension of construction before the aircraft could take flight.

Specifications

Crew

2

Wingspan

8.2 m (26 ft 11 in)

Wing area

18.7 m² (201 sq ft)

Powerplant

1 × Hispano-Suiza 8Aa V-8 water-cooled piston engine,

134 kW (180 hp)

Armament

Guns

1 machine gun.

Sources
Czechoslovakian Air Force, 1918-1970, Aircam Aviation Special 05-Richard Ward, Zdenek Titz & Gordon C. Davies.
Ceskoslovenské Letectvo, 1918-1924-Jiří Rajlich & Jiří Sehnal.