The G-4 was developed early in WW-I to address the principal operational deficiencies of the otherwise-successful G-3: a need for more power, and a better view and field of fire for the observer. Like the G-3, the G-4 proved to be surprisingly successful. Despite it's flimsy appearance it was quite study, and no push-over for enemy fighters. It served throughout WW-I as a reconnaissance plane, bomber and trainer. The Germans called it "Gitterumpf", or "Lattice-Tail".
paul yollant, e-mail, 09.10.2010 17:30
in charge of a small flying association in RION DES LANDES, 40370 France, we weregiven lately some wing parts of a CAUDRON, whivh could be a G3 or a G4. Those wings come from an airplane crashes in 1917( to be verified)when distributing tracts for the French effort in the War. Location of the accident was in nearby MORCENX ( landes) and the wings were kept in a farm building. The owner has no other comments, nor other remaining parts of the aircraft. G4 seems most likely due to the bending of the end of the main spar as beginning of aileron concept. also there is an empty round space in the wing above the pilot nacelle,which could have supported a gun or a camera. Any idea anyone? the closest location where such machines operated were Pau, Pontonx,Cazaux. Will take all replies, many thanks.
