MK-1 Rybka, V.L.Korvin, N.G.Mikhelson M.M.Shishmarev

(Rybka == The Little Fish)
MK-1 floatplane (78k b/w) "History of aircraft construction in the USSR" by V.B.Shavrov, Vol.1 p.347

In
late 1920 contest (aimed on development single-seat floatplane fighter) was called by UVVS. On Taganrog Works (former branch of 'Lebed' enterprises) team of designers responded with MK-1 project. Construction was finished in Petrograd at factory 'Krasnyj Letchik' (The Red Pilot).
The most interesting in MK-1 is its fuselage - very clean plywood monocoque, completely hiding the engine. Radiator was integrated into central section of the upper wing.
On Spring 1923floatplane was ready. Once on water, MK-1 dipped its tail - two floats were too small. When they were enlarged - aircraft became too heavy for its engine. It failed to takeoff. At the time the very concept of floatplane fighter was abandoned by all supporters.
'Rybka' on skis (52k b/w) "History of aircraft construction in the USSR" by V.B.Shavrov, Vol.1 p.347
N.G.Mikhelson installed MK-1 on normal landing gear, and during Winter 1923-1924 aircraft was flown on skis under designation 'Rybka' (The little Fish). But in 1924 fighter with 200hp engine was obsolete, despite airdynamic perfection. Speed was too low...
One built.
References:
  • "History of aircraft construction in the USSR" by V.B.Shavrov, Vol.1 p.345-346;
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  • MK-1 Rybka, Korvin
    		• Technical data
    Type MK-1
    Function fighter
    Year 1923
    Crew 1
    Engines 1*200hp Hispano-Suiza
    Speed 190km/h
    Modified December 5, 1997
    by Alexandre Savine;    		 Back to
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