already established their value. The consequence is that a variety
of machines figure in the British aerial navy. Private initiative is
excellently seconded by the Government manufacturing aeroplane factory,
while the training of pilots is likewise being carried out upon a
comprehensive scale. British manufacture may be divided into two broad
classes--the production of aeroplanes and of waterplanes respectively.
Although there is a diversity of types there is a conspicuous
homogeneity for the most part, as was evidenced by the British raid
carried out on February 11-12, when a fleet of 34 machines raided the
various German military centres established along the coast of Flanders.

Considerable secrecy has been displayed by the British Government
concerning the types of machines that are being utilised, although
ample evidence exists from the producing activity of the various
establishments that all available types which have demonstrated their
reliability and efficiency are being turned to useful purpose. The Avro
and Sopwith warplanes with their very high speeds have proved remarkably
successful.

So far as manufacturing is concerned the Royal Aerial Factory may be
said to constitute the back bone of the British aerial fleet. This
factory fulfils various purposes. It is not only engaged in the
manufacture of machines, and the development of aeroplanes for specific
duties, but also carries out the inspection and testing of machines
built by private firms. Every machine is submitted to an exacting test
before it is passed into the service.

Three broad types of Government machines are manufactured at this
establishment. There is that designed essentially for scouting
operations, in which speed is the all-important factor and which is
of the tractor type. Another is the "Reconnoitring" machine
known officially as the "R.E." to-day, but formerly as the "B.E"
(Bleriot-Experimental), a considerable number of which are in
commission.

This machine is also of the tractor type, carrying a pilot and an
observer, and has a maximum speed of 40-50 miles per hour. If required
it can further be fitted with an automatic gun for defence and attack.
The third craft is essentially a fighting machine. Owing to the
introduction of the machine-gun which is fixed in the prow, with the
marksman immediately behind it, the screw is placed at the rear. The
pilot has his seat behind the gunner. The outstanding feature of these
machines is t