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Hawker Hart Trainer

Used as an advanced trainer for the RAF, the Hart Trainer was developed from the Hart bomber variant. A training version allowed familiarisation of pilots with the characteristics of the new aircraft types then entering service.

The Hawker Hart stemmed from Specification 12/26. It used the newly developed Rolls-Royce FX 1B engine, later known as the Kestrel. The first aircraft joined No. 33 Squadron in January 1930. The Hart immediately became a great success. Its performance exceeded that of the RAF’s fighter aircraft and spurred on the development of a fighter version.

Several variants, including fighters, naval aircraft and army co-operation types, were developed. The Hart Trainer was built and flown in April 1932 fitted with dual controls for training purposes.

A total of 526 aircraft of this variant was produced. As even more powerful aircraft were introduced and monoplanes became common the numbers of Hart Trainers in use declined and they took up others duties such as communications.