...since what is the AH.com without several alternate RAF threads dealing with gear and other stuff
'Early' meaning 'designed and produced in mid/late 1930s', say, as an insurance against possible deficiencies of 1-engined monoplanes. The perspective 2-engined job being a monoplane with retractable U/C. For the sake of discussion, usage of Merlins is discouraged for the new heavy fighter.
What might be the best bet, what engines (only historical stuff, including what might be realistically produced in the UK while being of foreign origin), weapons (again historical stuff preferred), layout?
We're looking for performance (speed, climb), firepower, possibility of quick development & production time.
'Early' meaning 'designed and produced in mid/late 1930s', say, as an insurance against possible deficiencies of 1-engined monoplanes. The perspective 2-engined job being a monoplane with retractable U/C. For the sake of discussion, usage of Merlins is discouraged for the new heavy fighter.
What might be the best bet, what engines (only historical stuff, including what might be realistically produced in the UK while being of foreign origin), weapons (again historical stuff preferred), layout?
We're looking for performance (speed, climb), firepower, possibility of quick development & production time.