Yakovlev “Yak� 3 Entering service in 1944, the Yak-3 was smaller and lighter than most contemporary aircraft. Some pilots thought it was superior to the Mustang and Spitfire for its dog-fighting ability. Its agility and power led to strict orders for German pilots to avoid combat with the Yak-3 since 15 enemy planes went down for every Yak-3 lost. In 1991, a cash-starved Soviet Union used original parts and tooling to build new Yak-3M aircraft, and this example is one of those rare planes.
Military Aviation Museum
www.MilitaryAviationMuseum.org
SPECIFICATIONS: Country of Manufacture: Russia Manufacturer: Yakovlev Engine: Klimov VK-105 Horsepower: 1,300 hp Empty Weight: 4,640 pounds Max Weight: 5,864 pounds Max Speed: 407 mph Ceiling: 35,000 feet Crew: One Armament: 1 x 20 mm cannon 2 x 12.7 mm MGs