The S.E.5a was one of the best observation aircraft of the First World War. It was designed by H.P. Folland at the Royal Aircraft Factory in Farnborough. After overcoming a few teething problems, the best British pilots achieved great success with it. Despite its angular shape, the well-proportioned S.E.5a was extremely fast and formed a very stable weapon platform. These were all characteristics that compensated for its somewhat lacking manoeuvrability. (Source: Aircraft of the World, IMP BV)