Be-12 / M-12 Chaika, G.M.Beriev 'Mail'

At the Monino AF Museum near Moscow; Photo (16k) by Alexej Gretchihine;

A
urboprop-engined amphibian. The Be-12 is one of the last amphibians in military service. The Be-12 traces its origins back to the Be-6, but inherited little more than the concept of its gull wing and twin oval tailfins.
Initially its role was ASW patrol, but when newer missiles enabled the USN submarines to stay further away from the coast, the Be-12 was converted to the Search & Rescue role (Be-12PS). Small numbers are still in service.
(48k) found at Roy Cochrun's ever changing and never same Page;
The Be-12 is also operated by Vietnam, and for some years a number operated in Egyptian colors, but under Soviet control. The M-12 is AV-MF designation.
More links...
  • Be-12 Chaika, Beriev 'Mail'
  • M-12, Beriev
  • Be-12 history
  • Aeroflight Home Page - variety of links, images and information. Beriev Be-12 "Mail" profile is a real hit.
  • Be-12 at Virtual Aircraft Museum
  • DOO Flightsimulator page by Oleg Devjatkin;
  • Be-12 Chaika
  • Technical data
    Type Be-12
    Function ASW
    Year 1961
    Crew 5-6
    Engines 2*4190hp G.A.Ivchenko AI-20D
    Wing Span 29.71m
    Length 30.17m
    Height 7.00m
    Wing Area 105.00m2
    Empty Weight 21700kg
    Max. Weight 31000kg
    Speed 612km/h (608km/h)
    Ceiling 11580m (11280m)
    Range 4000km (7500km)
    Armament 3000kg
    Modified January 25, 1996
    by Alexandre Savine;
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