Barry, 19.01.2017 12:14 Designed by Henry Folland there were three models built. The IV (N224) with a slightly larger wing span and powered by a 900 h.p. direct drive Napier Lion VIIA, the IVA (N222) with the same power plant and reduced wing span, and the IVB which had the same wing as the IVA but used a geared 885 h.p. Lion VIIB. Entered into the 1927 Schneider Trophy race alongside the Supermarine S.5 and the Shorts Crusader, the Gloster IVB had to retire after 5 laps of the course. Later investigation found a cracked propeller shaft which could have resulted in a fatality to the pilot Flight Lieutenant Kinkead if he had not retired. The race was won by the Supermarine and the IVA and IVB were retained as trainers for subsequent races. The IV was sold privately with the intention of being converted to a land plane to make an attempt on the world air speed record but these plans came to nothing. The wing span of the IVA and IVB was 26'4" and not as noted.

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