1944 - Polikarpov Po2.
Watch it flying, sounds like it falling to bits :o)
www.youtube.com/watch?v=blnn0ZyqGQ4
The U-2/Po-2 was designed by N N Polikarpov, head of the OSS (Dept for experimental landplane construction) in response to a wish to establish a single Soviet type for a uniform training syllabus, with the emphasis on a reliable engine coupled with simplicity and cheapness. The original 1927 design was very simple and cheap but flew like a brick, so the requirement for simplicity was relaxed and on 7th January 1928 the aerodynamically cleaned up U-2 flew to critical acclaim, especially for its positive longitudinal stability and lack of vices (even though these are not universally desirable qualities in a trainer).
Interesting features demonstrating the simplicity of the design are that both fuel and oil systems are gravity fed. The fuel tank holds 200L but there is no fuel gauge and no fuel pump. The oil system - no filter, just a mesh screen - is turned on by a tap behind the starboard cowl panel, out of reach of the pilot.
1944 - Polikarpov Po2.
Watch it flying, sounds like it falling to bits :o)
www.youtube.com/watch?v=blnn0ZyqGQ4
The U-2/Po-2 was designed by N N Polikarpov, head of the OSS (Dept for experimental landplane construction) in response to a wish to establish a single Soviet type for a uniform training syllabus, with the emphasis on a reliable engine coupled with simplicity and cheapness. The original 1927 design was very simple and cheap but flew like a brick, so the requirement for simplicity was relaxed and on 7th January 1928 the aerodynamically cleaned up U-2 flew to critical acclaim, especially for its positive longitudinal stability and lack of vices (even though these are not universally desirable qualities in a trainer).
Interesting features demonstrating the simplicity of the design are that both fuel and oil systems are gravity fed. The fuel tank holds 200L but there is no fuel gauge and no fuel pump. The oil system - no filter, just a mesh screen - is turned on by a tap behind the starboard cowl panel, out of reach of the pilot.