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People have probably seen or head of the Harrier, the iconic jump jet. However, in the '70's the Yakovlev Design Bureau of the Soviet Union developed it's own jump jet: Yakovlev Yak-38, NATO Codenamed "Forger" When originally seen by Western observers, it was suspected of being an attempt to copy the original Hawker Siddeley P.1127 (Forerunner to the Harrier) but then regarded as an original design once it was learned to be a triple engined and faster. Indeed, the Forger was faster. It approached the sound barrier at maximum speed and could potentially surpass it, given the right conditions. The Yak-38's V/STOL capabilities differ from the Harriers in that it utilizes forward lift jets and tail exhaust nozzles. The rear nozzles are arranged in a manner similar to the American F-4 Phantom; side by side while tucked infront and below the horizontal stabilizers. These exhausts would pivot downward during the transition from level to vertical flight. At the same time, the forward lift jets would open and a large air scoop on the top would open as well. This would balance the front end of the craft. The Yak-38 also possessed a hands free landing system. The pilot would fly the fighter to an approach fix and intercept it, initiating the ILS approach. From there, the aircraft's flight computer would judge the distance between aircraft and carrier. The pilot would intercept this fix at about 220KTAS and would eventually slow to a speed barely faster than the ship. From the get go, the Forger's designers had access to some of the more important lessons learned by those that flew the Harrier: This kind of aircraft is hard to fly. For added safety, the Forger had an automated ejection system. In the event of an engine failure, the pilot would be ejected should the aircraft roll more than 60 degrees. The Yak-38 was a very advanced aircraft for the Soviets, at the time. However, it's shortcomings were numerous and crippling. The usage of Lift jets towards the front often meant that the main engine would ingest exhaust from them, causing flame outs. The aircraft itself had an abysmal useful load and, during the hottest days on the Black Sea, it meant that the aircraft would have to omit any arms all together if it were to even get aloft. It did go into production and even saw combat during the Soviet involvement in Afghanistan. It was used in the same manner the USMC uses it's Harriers: As a strike craft and CAS bird. However, the heat coupled with the high altitude meant that the payload was often nothing more than a couple 100KG bombs. The final nail in the coffin was it's upkeep. This aircraft is beyond a maintenance queen. The nature of the engine arrangement meant that it required overhaul with astonishing frequency. In the end, the Forgers were relegated to land duty before retirement in 1991. Three production variants were made: Yak-38 Forger-A. The original run of 140, it first flew in January 1971. Yak-38M Forger-A. This upgraded version utilized more powerful engines, upping it's max take off weight by about 1,000kg. It was still underpowered. Yak-38U Forger-B. Two Seat Trainer.
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Jul 14, 2012 16:01
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| # ¿ Apr 28, 2024 11:29 |
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