The Handley Page Hampden, kept at the Canadian Museum of Flight, shouldn't be there.
Rescued off the ocean floor after decades of submersion, it was rebuilt over many years to a condition of fine static display. More then 1400 of these aircraft were built with the first production model flying in May 1938. Yet no other example of this aircraft exists in one piece anywhere in the world. The Hampden was a fine aircraft for its day, but its day was short lived.
The advancement in technology and design, between the wars, had altered the role of the airplane more then any government of the day realized. Designed as a fast, medium, daylight bomber with excellent range, the Hampden succeeded until it met enemy fighters.
Like a number of aircraft from this era, the Hampden was not fast enough and unable to defend itself in this new air war environment. Its role was quickly altered to coastal work: laying mines and long-range torpedo runs over the North Sea. Perhaps more importantly it now flew at night.The Hampdens role in Canadian history is significant.
In 1938 with the threat of war looming, Britain hoped to establish an alternative aircraft industry in Canada. A number of Canadian firms were brought together under the title of Canadian Associated Aircraft Ltd. The various companies built components which were transported to St. Hubert and Malton for final assembly.
It was one of the first modern airplanes built in Canada and of the
160 completed, 84 were shipped over seas to help the war effort.References:Aviation In Canada Larry MilberryFighting Aircraft of World War II Bill Gunston Please visit the Canadian Museum of Flight's web page