Besson H-3

In 1919, designer Marcel Besson began the development of a light multi-purpose flying boat, designated Besson H-3. It was a two-seater wooden single-strut triplane, equipped with a 60 hp (45 kW) Rhône 9Z engine.

Early Development and Design

That same summer, the H-3 was demonstrated to the public at the Paris Air Show. During further tests, it became clear that the engine’s power was insufficient, and it was decided to replace it with a 130 hp (97 kW) Clerget 9B rotary engine.

Challenges and Engine Upgrade

The re-engining significantly improved the boat’s flight characteristics, but no buyers for the H-3 could be found. In 1922, it underwent a small modernization, receiving new wings with an increased area (32.20 m²), after which its designation was changed to MB-12.

Technical Specifications

Modification	H- 3
Wingspan, m	8.25
Length, m	9. 00
Height, m	3.10
Wing area, m2	30.99
Empty weight	5 90
Maximum takeoff weight	875
Engine type	1 Piston engine Clerget 9B
Power, hp	1 x 130
Maximum speed, km/h	1 55
Cruising speed, km/h	12 5
Practical range, km	450
Service ceiling, m	3200
Crew	2

Image and diagram gallery of the Besson H-3

H-3	H-3
H-3