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Thulin L was an
improved Thulin E. Because the four purchased aeroplanes would be used
in the north of Sweden (stationed at the Fortress of Boden) with its
lack of airfields but with many great rivers and lakes, they were intended
to be fitted with floats. Due to weight problems this showed itself not
possible with Thulin E. Therefore the five ordered Thulin L should have the
following improvements:
- The fuselage should be double as broad in the front so the engine could
have bearing on both sides.
- The observer should be placed behind the pilot.
- All parts of the aircraft should be internally electrically connected to
make it possible to install a radio station.
- The under wings should have fittings for ski landing gear.
- The fuel tanks should be large enough for five hours flying.
- The wing surface should be about 14 % larger than the E model.
- The floats and its foundations should be of a lighter construction.
- The tail part should be of an improved design compared with the E model.
As the type E, Thulin L was fitted with a 90 hp rotating Thulin A-engine.
Four aircraft were delivered during January to May 1916. This month all four
aircraft were assembled at Abisko at Lake Torne Träsk in Lapland. They got
the Army Aviation Numbers 38, 40, 42 and 44. The aircraft had good
performances when operating on land (with ski landing gear).
When the aircraft returned to their base Boden, they were fitted with
floats. See photo below! The aircraft served the Army well, but the
90 hp engine was not enough for an aircraft that ought to be armed and
equipped with radio and camera equipment.
Another Thulin L with double command was delivered in March 1917 to
be used as trainer. Army Aviation Company number 48.
Length: 7,5 m. Span: 11,6 m. Height 3,52 m. Maximum take-off weight: 965 kg.
Max. speed: 120 km/h.
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