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Naval History and Heritage Command

National Museum of the U.S. Navy

Curtiss "F" Flying Boat

The U.S. Navy adapted the British F-5 to American manufacturing methods and powered it with the Liberty engine, also American made.   Previously, British engines were used.  These aircraft were made at the Naval Aircraft Factory, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.  The design of the F-5L was considered a U.S. Navy design rather than a Curtiss.   The wooden hulls remained a standard for patrol boats until replaced by the Navy PN-2 in the late 1920s.   Note, the "F" in the F-5L stands for Felixstowe, England, where the aircraft was originally developed. 

Image:   NH 85614:   F-5L aircraft (Bu# A-3334), circa 1918.   U.S. Naval History and Heritage Command Photograph.