Sikorsky S-10

The Sikorsky S-10 was a Russian military twin-float seaplane that served with the Baltic Fleet from the summer of 1913 to 1915. After Igor Sikorsky built the successful Sikorsky S-6 for the Russian military, he tried to build another successful aircraft for them. The S-10 was a modified S-6B built by the Russo-Baltic Carriage Factory. Approximately sixteen production versions of the S-10 were built. It had a less powerful engine and generally weaker structure than the S-6. They had either a 80 HP Gnome Monosoupape or a 100 HP Argus Motoren engine. Some were deployed on the world's first operational seaplane carriers.

Development
Sikorsky built a special S-10 for the 1913 military aircraft competition. This particular S-10 had a 80 HP Gnome engine. The wing span was increased by 150 mm and were fitted with outer panels that could be folded for storage. The two seats were fitted side-by-side, and the yoke could be switched between the pilot and co-pilot during flight.

The aircraft also took the first prize in the competition although it lacked the speed and manoeuvrability of the S-6B. Its payload of 48% of the aircraft weight was exceptional. After its wingspan had been reduced by another 3050 mm and the Gnome engine was replaced by a stronger Monosoupape engine, the S-10 served as both a reconnaissance and trainer on floats with the Baltic Fleet.

Records
Russian test pilot Gleb Alekhnovich set a Russian record by flying non-stop 500 km in 4 hours 56 minutes and 12 seconds with the S-10.

Operators

 * Russian Navy
 * Baltic Fleet
 * Baltic Fleet

Specifications
Data from History of aircraft construction in the USSR.