Antonov A-7

The Antonov A-7 or as an insert variant Antonov RF -8 was a glider manufactured in the Soviet Union. The development took place in the OKB -115 instead of at Yakovlev, Oleg Konstantinovich Antonov was however designer.

The high-wing monoplane had a retractable landing gear with fixed tailwheel. Under the front part of the machine a wooden skid was incorporated. The wheels could be fitted with snow runners. The machine consisted of a wooden frame and had a fabric covering. The tail unit was conventional, vertical and rudder were trimmed. The outer wings were behind the flaps, which were designed as a split flap, removable for transport. From the wing spoiler could be extended.

In addition to the pilot, the aircraft could carry six soldiers. For quick exit of the machine, a door was installed right behind the wing and left behind the cockpit ever. The fuselage cross section was rectangular. The machine was used to supply partisans or for command operations.

The development began about 1938; in 1940 the production could have been taken, but the attack on the Soviet Union delayed the production. It was not until the end of 1942 they could start in full. Ultimately, about 400-500 pieces were made. The machine proved to be as useful as the Airspeed AS 51 Horsa or DFS 230 were as tow planes usually the Ilyushin DB - 3, SB -2 or Tupolev TB-3 Tupolev used.

Specifications

3536
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