Boeing Model 281 17th Squadron, Chinese Air Force, Nanking, 1937 (1:48)

The Boeing Model 281 was the export version of the first P-26C. It had the same carbureted engine used in the first 'C' versions, new high headrest and wing flaps. The 281 was actually on the assembly line before the 'C' and was used to develop the wing flaps needed to reduce the landing speed. The Model 281 made its maiden flight in December 1934. The Chinese Air Force aircraft were ordered in 1934 but because of funding problems did arrive until 1936.

In 1934 the Chinese Air Force ordered 11 Model 281 aircraft, the export version of the Boeing P-26. The 'Peashooters' were assigned to the 17th Pursuit Squadron of the 3rd Pursuit Group based at Chuyung Airfield near Nanking. The aircraft were delivered with an overall light grey with large black letters. In mid August 1937 the 17th PS began defending Nanking from Japanese G3M attacks. Due to losses from the new Japanese A5M and a lack of spare parts the Model 281 was out of service when Nanking fell on December 13 1937.

Specifications for the Model 281

Country of origin ' USA

Manufacturer ' Boeing Aircraft Company

Role ' Day Fighter

Crew - One

Dimensions
Wing span - 27 ft. 11.5 in.
Length - 23 ft. 10 in.
Height - 10 ft. 5 in.

Weight
Empty - 2,197 lbs.
Maximum - 2,955 lbs.

PERFORMANCE
Engine ' Carburetor-equipped Pratt and Whitney R-1340-27 (500 hp)
Maximum speed - 234 mph (203 knots)
Cruising speed - 199 mph (172 knots)
Range - 360 statute miles (313 nautical miles)
Service ceiling - 27,400 ft.

Armament
2 X fixed .30-cal. machine guns
or 1 X .50- and one .30-cal. machine gun
and Up to 200 lbs. of bombs

Modifications
New high headrest
Slight adjustments to the carbureted fuel delivery system
Wing flaps to reduce landing speed
Some had low pressure Goodyear tires for landing on rough unpaved fields.