Yet the RFC had no perceived role for a ‘high speed scout’.
The French had, they attached single-seater Bleriots to the cavalry with, presumably, the intention that the pilots fly home with the information rather than communicate it to the ground via lamp, wireless, flare or message bag.
No such pre-war co-operation with the British cavalry I know of, though I can cite examples of British cavalry officers going to France during manoeuvres, and even taking joyrides in aircraft.
So, was this French influence, or were the Sopwiths a type without a perceived RFC role which is why they went to France with the Aircraft Park ?