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Rolls-Royce Buzzard V-2240-56 (Model H. XIV) V-12 Engine, ca. 1928. Creator: Rolls-Royce
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Rolls-Royce Buzzard V-2240-56 (Model H. XIV) V-12 Engine, ca. 1928. Creator: Rolls-Royce
Following its success as an automobile manufacturer, Rolls-Royce began design and development of aircraft engines at the request of the British Admiralty at the beginning of World War I. In June 1927, Rolls-Royce began designing a scaled-up version of its supercharged Kestrel to power large flying boats. Later known as the Buzzard, the prototype was completed in 1928 and installed experimentally in large aircraft, both flying boats and land planes. Rolls-Royce sold less than 50 production engines, 32 of them to the Japanese. Even though Rolls-Royce abandoned the Buzzard within a few years, the development work on it proved important; serving as the basis for the R engine, which won the Schneider Trophy in 1929 and 1931
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases the Rolls-Royce Buzzard V-2240-56 (Model H. XIV) V-12 Engine, a remarkable creation by Rolls-Royce in 1928. Originally renowned for their luxurious automobiles, Rolls-Royce ventured into aircraft engine design and development during World War I at the request of the British Admiralty. In an effort to power large flying boats, Rolls-Royce began designing a scaled-up version of its supercharged Kestrel engine in June 1927. This prototype, known as the Buzzard, was completed a year later and installed experimentally in various types of aircraft including both flying boats and land planes. Despite selling fewer than 50 production engines with 32 being purchased by Japan, the Buzzard's significance lies not in its commercial success but rather in its contribution to future developments. The research conducted on this engine proved vital as it served as the foundation for the R engine which triumphed at the Schneider Trophy races in 1929 and 1931. This stunning photograph captures every intricate detail of this engineering marvel - from its steel aluminum paint and wood preservative coating to its rubber components and stainless steel construction. It is a testament to Rolls-Royce's commitment to technological advancement within aviation. Preserved within the National Air and Space Museum's collection, this image serves as an educational resource showcasing Britain's pioneering role in air transport during the vibrant era of innovation that characterized the twenties.
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