机翼后缘有半圆的是改进型号 After a number of teething problems with the Bristol Taurus engines, the prototype (L4441) finally flew on October 15, 1938. Subsequent bombing trials from Boscombe Down revealed “an exceptionally poor bombing platform” with an excessive tendency to roll — this was corrected on later aircraft with semi-circular plates fitted to the trailing edges of the upper wings which provided the required stability. This was a fortunate modification because although designed as a torpedo-bomber, the Beaufort was more often used as a medium day bomber.