First flown in 1916, the potential of Sopwith's new Fl scout was quickly recognised by the Admiralty, which placed its first orders in January 1917. With its distinctive 'hump' fairing housing two Vickers machine-guns, the type soon acquired the name 'Camel'. At the beginning of June 1917, the first deliveries were made to 4 Squadron, Royal Naval Air Service (RNAS), the squadron commanded by B S Huskisson. Based near Dunkirk, 'Naval 4' was tasked with intercepting twin-engined Gothas to prevent them bombing London.
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