Yak-41, A.S.Yakovlev 'Freestyle'

(46k and 35k)

T
he Yak-41 is the world's first (and the only) supersonic VTOL fighter. It operates with lift engines in the forward fuselage and a vectoring nozzle on the main engine, placed well forward, between twin tail booms. Yak-41 seems to be more a technology demonstrator than an actual fighter aircraft, and the need to use afterburner for take-off is a distinct problem.
Development is said to be continuing, after being halted temporarily.
Prototype
  • Yak-141 'Freestyle', used also for record attempts;
    More Yak-141 links...
  • Yak-41, Yakovlev 'Freestyle'
  • Yak-141 at Yanko's Russian Weapons Catalog; (added 8/18/97)
  • Yak-41/141 Information at Alexej Gretchihine RA FAQ;
  • Article in the 'Military Parade' magazine, dedicated to Soviet/Russian aircraft carriers. Some information on shipborn aircraft.
    		• Technical data
    Type Yak-41
    Function fighter
    Year 1989
    Crew 1
    Engines 1*R-79V-300
    2*RD-41
    Speed 1800km/h
    Ceiling +15000m
    Range 2100km
    Armament
    Guns 1*g30mm
    Bombs/Rockets 2600kg on pylons
    Modified January 25, 1996
    by Alexandre Savine;    		 Back to
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