British RE.8 two-seater corps-reconnaissance aircraft, nicknamed the 'Harry Tate' after a popular Scottish music-hall comedian. Introduced in November 1916, the RE.8 acquired a reputation for stability in flight - good for observation but a handicap when trying to evade German fighters, though experienced and determined crews proved that it could defend itself vigorously when under attack. Some 4000 were built and it remained the reconnaissance workhorse of the Royal Flying Corps/Royal Air Force for the rest of the war.
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