The Nieuport 17 was a larger and a more powerful successor to the Nieuport 11 with its 110hp LeRhone 9J rotary engine (103 mph), continuing the sesquiplane scout layout (bottom wing smaller that the top). The sesquiplane was used to improve downward visibility. Unfortunately, due to aerodynamic and structural interactions not understood at that time, there was an inherent structural weakness with this configuration. It was very maneuverable with quick turns, and out climbed the Eindeckers. Its performance impressed the Germans so much that they manufactured them as the Schuckert D.I. The Nieuport 17s helped French maintain air superiority during the battle of Verdun. In addition to being flown by the principal French aces, the Nieuport 17 was flown by British aces Albert Ball, “Mick” Mannock, and “Billy” Bishop, Italian Ace Francesco Baracca (carrying his prancing stallion emblem latter presented to Enzo Ferrari by Baracca’s mother) and Russian Ace Alexander Kozakov. They were flown by both sides during the Russian Civil war. Over 4,300 Nieuport 17s were built.
