The Beverly was intended from the outset as a rough-field operator hauling heavy loads over considerable distances in variable environments. Its reverse propeller function aided in short runway landings while the reinforced, fixed undercarriage proved suitable for off-runway operations. The high-wing arrangement assisted in short runway take-offs and the deep internal cargo hold could haul anything from basic supply palettes and combat infantry to artillery loads and paratroops - up to 70 of the latter could be taken airborne, exiting either through a hatch in the boom and through side fuselage doors. The stated payload maximum was 44,000 pounds. Power from the quad-engine arrangement totaled 2,850 horsepower each which helped to produce a maximum speed of 240 miles per hour, a cruising speed of 175 miles per hour, a range out to 1,300 miles, a service ceiling of 16,000 feet and a rate-of-climb of 760 feet per minute.
While not a particularly pleasing aircraft to look at, the Beverly had much-needed (and respected) qualities in-the-field. Its performance was as intended and delivery of the line began in March of 1956 to 47 Squadron (Abingdon) before the line was stationed in far-off places like Bahrain, Kenya and the Far East to support British actions and interests. The last Beverlies were retired in 1967 as the service shifted to an aircraft of new, more conventional appearance - the Hawker Siddeley "Andover".
Of the 49 Beverlies completed, nine were lost to accident or otherwise. Two of three retired survivors fell to the scrapman's torch in time - leaving just one complete example.
Two attempts were made to evolve the basic Mk 1 production model: B-107 and B-107A. The former appeared during 1956 and introduced an all-new rounded fuselage design with larger internal capacity and power was to come from 4 x Rolls-Royce "Tyne" turboprops. This initiative was not furthered into a working prototype. Similarly, B-107A of 1959 - adding a nose door for improved loading/unloading while borrowing many elements from the B-107 before it - fell to naught.
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