Martin MS

The Martin MS-1 was an experimental scout biplane ordered by the United States Navy and was intended to operate from a submarine. It first flew in 1923 and the type was used for tests until 1926 when the project was cancelled.

MS-1
A Martin MS-1 on USS S-1 in 1923
Role Submarine-operated scout biplane
Manufacturer Glenn L. Martin Company
First flight 1923
Introduction 1923
Primary user United States Navy
Number built 6

Development

Following World War I, the U.S. Navy Bureau of Aeronautics conducted studies concerning the possibility of submarine-borne observation and scouting aircraft. After surfacing, this plane should be rolled out and quickly assembled. It was planned to launch the seaplane by ballasting the submarine until the deck was awash. The Navy ordered two types of aircraft, the Martin MS-1, constructed of wood and fabric, and the all-metal Cox-Klemin XS. The MS-1 first flew from Lake Erie in early 1923.[1]

Operational history

The submarine S-1 became the experimental platform for the operation of scout seaplanes late in 1923. The MS-1 and the Cox-Klemin XS were used for the trials, mounted in a cylindrical pod behind the conning tower. The first successful attempt was made on 5 November 1923. The first full cycle of surfacing, assembly, launching, retrieving, disassembly, and submergence took place on 28 July 1926, on the Thames River at New London, Connecticut using the XS-2.[2]

A total of six Martin MS-1s were built, with all six still being listed with the U.S. Navy as late as 1926. After further trials during 1926, all the experimental aircraft were scrapped.

Variants
A Martin MS-1 being assembled on the submarine USS S-1, 1923.
MS-1
six built (BuNo A6521-A6526).

Operators
 United States

Specifications

Data from

General characteristics

  • Crew: one
  • Length: 18 ft 1 in (5.50 m)
  • Wingspan: 18 ft 0 in (5.34 m)
  • Height: 8 ft 0 in (2.38 m)
  • Empty weight: 650 lb (295 kg)
  • Gross weight: 1,007 lb (456 kg)
  • Powerplant: 1 × Lawrance L-4 , 60 hp (44 kW)

Performance

  • Maximum speed: 100 mph (161 km/h, 87 kn)
  • Range: 200 mi (320 km, 170 nmi)
  • Service ceiling: 8,500 ft (2,590 m)
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See also

Aircraft of comparable role, configuration and era

Related lists

References
  1. "Archived copy". Archived from the original on 2011-08-28. Retrieved 2011-09-22.CS1 maint: archived copy as title (link)
  2. http://www.history.navy.mil/danfs/s1/s-1.htm
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