PWS-11/11a – the Polish training airplane

In connection with the production of the PWS-10 series of fighters at Podlaskie Zaklady Lotnicze (Polesje Aviation Workshop - PWS), the Polish Air Force felt the need to have a training aircraft. In 1928 - 1929, the two-seater PWS-12 and the single-seater PWS-11 were designed for the school flights and training of fighter pilots. It was based on the design previously designed and produced PWS-5 communications aircraft. Both planes had the same engines and close structural solutions. The Ministry of War ordered 1 PWS-11 prototype for static and one for flight testing. In November 1929, the plane was tested at the factory airfield in Biala Podlaska. The tests showed, that the plane was almost out of control. It is indicated to modify the steering surfaces by moving the stabilizer higher. The problem was suspected to be due to the tailplanes being shadowed by the fuselage. The aircraft, modified in this way, is named PWS-11a. This change slightly improved the controlling of airplane, but did not solve the problem permanently. In the end, it turned out, that the use of a large cross-section uncovered radial engine in combination with a narrow fuselage not only does not reduce aerodynamic drag, but also causes new ones, which further deteriorate the efficiency of the tail rudders. The problems were finally solved only in the second prototype, PWS-11 bis, with a completely redesigned elliptical cross-section fuselage. This machine, after making several changes, had excellent flight characteristics and maneuverability. But the Air Force was no longer interested in this type of aircraft.

An uncomplicated, well designed and detailed model for modelers of all experience. Just for beginners, this should not be one of the first models of increased complexity, and it would be good to have a more experienced colleague nearby to help with advice in difficult moments.