Sopwith Pup Aces - Joe Fall - 3 (Naval) Squadron - WWI Aviation Art Painting
According to legend, the well-respected Sopwith Pup evolved from a design which test pilot Harry Hawker drew on the Sopwith factory floor. After several modifications this design came to fruition as prototype 3691, making an immediate impression on both the RNAS and the RCF with its speed and maneuverability. The type was pressed into production and given the names "Sopwith "Scout" (RFC) and "Admirality 9901" (RNAS). However, the type became known as the "Pup" after an RFC offer spotted the the Scout sitting next to a 1 1/2 Strutter and declared to the pilot "Good God! Your Strutter has had a pup!" Despite only being armed with a single Vickers machine gun, its light weight and maneuverability made the Pup a good match for the more heavily armed German fighters of the day.
This particular Sopwith Pup, N6205, was flown by Flt Cdr Joe Fall of 3 Sq RNAS., the joint leading Pup ace. This Pup featured a red cowling and wheel covers and, not visible in this view, the name BETTY painted under the cockpit.
