Polikarpov PO-2 The PO-2 “Mule” is the most produced biplane in aviation history. It was used in liaison, ground attack, observation, training, and psychological warfare. German troops called the plane the Nähmaschine or “sewing machine” due to the odd rattling noise made by the engine. The plane was used very effectively by the Russian “Night Witches” of the 588th Night Bomber Regiment, whose pilots were all women. Their goal was to harass enemy ground units by bombing them at night and depriving them of sleep. The museum’s “Mule” was found in a forest outside Vladivostok and restored in far eastern Russia.
Military Aviation Museum
www.MilitaryAviationMuseum.org
SPECIFICATIONS: Country of Manufacture: Russia Manufacturer: Polikarpov Engine: Shvetsov M11D Radial Horsepower: 125 hp Empty Weight: 1,698 pounds Max Weight: 2,976 pounds Max Speed: 94 mph Ceiling: 9,843 feet Crew: Two Armament: 1 x 7.62 mm ShKAS MG