The Gloster Gauntlet was born from a series of prototypes developed to meet evolving Air Ministry specifications for a high-performance single-seat fighter.
Its lineage began with the S.S.18, which first flew in January 1929, powered by a 450 hp Bristol Mercury IIA radial engine.
Though the airframe showed promise, the Mercury IIA proved unreliable, prompting Gloster to test alternative engines.
Subsequent iterations included
S.S.18A
Fitted with a 480 hp Bristol Jupiter VIIF, improving reliability.
S.S.18B
Tested with a 560 hp Armstrong Siddeley Panther III, though not adopted for production.
S.S.19
Retained the same airframe (J9125), now with a Jupiter VII and a Townend ring cowling for improved aerodynamics.
S.S.19A
Featured a Jupiter VIIFS, revised tail surfaces, and a tailwheel replacing the rear skid. Official trials began in September 1930.
S.S.19B
Final prototype stage, fitted with a 536 hp Mercury VIS, later upgraded to a 570 hp VIS2.
This version underwent acceptance trials in 1933, leading to the first production order.
The Air Ministry, impressed by the Gauntlet’s speed and manoeuvrability, placed an initial order for 24 aircraft in September 1933, designating them Gauntlet Mk I.
Production Models
Gauntlet Mk I
Quantity
24 built.
Engine
Mercury VIS2.
Armament
Two synchronised. 303 Vickers machine guns.
Performance
Top speed
~230 mph (370 km/h).
Service Entry
May 1935 with No. 19 Squadron RAF.
Role
Replaced the Bristol Bulldog, offering a 50 mph speed advantage and improved firepower.
Gauntlet Mk II
Quantity
221 built.
Manufacturing
Incorporated Hawker’s production methods after Gloster’s acquisition.
Improvements
Strengthened airframe.
Revised control systems.
Enhanced reliability and maintainability.
Deployment
Operated by 14 RAF squadrons, including auxiliary units and overseas detachments.
Operational History
Royal Air Force
The Gauntlet was the last open-cockpit fighter in RAF service and the penultimate biplane fighter before the Hurricane and Spitfire.
It played a pioneering role in radar interception trials, including the first successful radar-guided interception—a technique vital during the Battle of Britain.
By 1936, frontline squadrons began transitioning to more advanced fighters like the Gloster Gladiator, Hawker Hurricane, and Supermarine Spitfire.
Gauntlets were relegated to training, radar trials, and overseas duties until their final withdrawal in 1943.
Royal Australian Air Force
No. 3 Squadron RAAF deployed to Egypt in August 1940, initially equipped with Westland Lysanders, Gloster Gauntlets, and Gloster Gladiators.
Gauntlets were used for dive-bombing and ground attack missions against Italian forces in North Africa.
Operated from Qasaba Landing Ground (LG11) and briefly attached to No. 208 Squadron RAF.
Withdrawn by December 1940 due to servicing difficulties and replaced by Gladiators and later Hurricanes.
Finnish Air Force
Finland acquired gauntlets for use during the Winter War (1939–1940) and Continuation War (1941–1944).
Used primarily for reconnaissance and limited combat, operating until 1945.
Denmark
Denmark operated a small number of Gauntlets prior to German occupation in 1940.
Their operational impact was minimal due to the rapid onset of hostilities.
Retirement and Legacy
The Gauntlet remained in limited service until 1943, marking the end of the RAF’s biplane fighter era.
Though overshadowed by faster monoplanes, it played a crucial transitional role in fighter development and radar integration.
Its robust design and adaptability made it a valuable platform for experimentation and overseas operations.
