R-Z, Factory-1

53k b/w drawing of RZ on skis, courtesy of Sergey Andreev;

S
eriously redesigned version of R-5, intended for ground attack rather than for reconnaissance missions. It was created under initiative of A.M.Belenkovich (Director of Factory-1) by team of designers at this factory (E.P.Shekunov, D.S.Markov, A.A.Skrabov and others). R-Z was smaller than predecessor and had different powerplant. Other changes included enclosed cockpit, covered defensive turret (in same canopy). Construction was lighter than of the R-5 and somewhat weaker, but still fulfilled all requirements.
Modifications failed to add much of performance. Opposite, R-Z was much tougher in handling and put much more stress on pilot than its predecessor.
Drawing of RZ in Spanish colors (28k) from 'Krylia Rodini' March 1989
Early batches had same armament as R-5, later was strengthened. R-Z was widely used during Civil War in Spain.
In production during 1935-1937, it was the last Soviet biplane reconnaissater built in series.
PredecessorModifications

R-5		 R-Z attacker R-Z record setter R-Z cargo P-Z passenger PT-AM-34NB transport
More Links...
  • R-Z, Polikarpov
    • References:
  • "History of aircraft construction in the USSR" by V.B.Shavrov, Vol.1 p.511-512;
    		• Technical data
    Type R-Z
    Function Reconnaissater
    Attacker
    Year 1935
    Crew 2
    Engines 1*750/850hp M-34N
    Length 9.7m
    Wingspan 15.5/11.6m
    Wing area 42.52m2
    Empty weight 2007kg
    Loaded weight 3150kg
    Wing load 74.0kg/m2
    Power load 4.2kg/hp
    Speed at 0m 276km/h
    Speed at 3500m 316km/h
    Landing Speed 105km/h
    Landing Roll 14sec
    220m
    Takeoff Roll 15sec
    270m
    Turn time 18sec
    Range 1000km
    Ceiling 8700m
    Climb
    3000m 6.6min
    5000m 11.8min
    Armament
    Guns up to 7*7.62mm
    Bombs 500kg
    Modified January 30, 1998
    by Alexandre Savine
    and Sergey Andreev;    		 Back to
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