How many Australian versions did the Beaufort have?

Short answer

Six: a total of 700 Australian Beauforts were built across six series. The first aircraft assembled in Australia, A9-1, flew on 5 May 1941, and production ended in August 1944, when the Beaufighter took over. Additionally, 46 Beauforts of various marks were converted into light transports for the RAAF.

Published: November 5, 2026 · Updated: November 5, 2026 · Edited by Above Ten Thousand · Editorial policy

How many Australian versions did the Beaufort have?

RAAF Beauforts in flight 1942

Two factories and 700 aircraft

Australian Beauforts were to be built at DAP's established plant in Fishermans Bend, Melbourne, and at a new factory in Mascot, New South Wales. In total, 700 Australian Beauforts were produced across six series. The first Beaufort assembled in Australia, A9-1, flew on 5 May 1941, and the first one built in the country, A9-7, left the line in August. Australian Beaufort production ended in August 1944, when the line switched to building the Beaufighter.

Engines and propellers

One series totaled 40 aircraft with Pratt & Whitney S1C3 Twin Wasp radial engines and Curtiss Electric propellers. A third series, of 30 units, also fitted S3C4-G engines with Hamilton Standard propellers and was similar to the Beaufort Mk V, but with a larger tail. The most numerous, with 520 aircraft, combined S3C4-G engines with Curtiss Electric propellers and was an improved version fitted with ASV radar, able to carry American or British mines or torpedoes.