The fact that the vehicles are condemned to
the high roads, or at least to comparatively smooth and level
ground, constitutes a severe handicap. Again, when travelling at
high speed, and this is essential when pursuing a fast aeroplane,
the accurate laying of the weapon is extremely difficult, owing
to the oscillation of the vehicle itself, especially if the road
surface is in a bad condition. The sighting arrangements are of
a wonderfully complete character, as described elsewhere, but the
irregular rolling movement arising from high speed is a
nullifying quantity. It is tolerably easy for the aircraft,
especially an aeroplane, to evade successful pursuit, either by
rising to an elevation beyond the range of the gun, or by
carrying out baffling evolutions such as irregular undulating
flight, wheeling, and climbing. According to the reports of the
British and French airmen the "Archibald" has failed to establish
the glowing reputation which was anticipated, for the simple
reason that, unless it has a clear straight road and can maintain
its high speed, it can easily be out-distanced by the fleet human
bird.
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