Aircraft Lovers Group
Hobbies & Interests
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The I-185 prototype equipped with the M-71 engine which first flew on June 10, 1942 was designated a "production standard", i.e. a prototype which was to be used as a standard for future production. Compared to other prototypes of the series many defects were resolved and the overall aerodynamics improved. The I-185 M-71 production standard was built from the blueprints intended for serial production.
The I-185 M-71 production standard, in addition to the I-185 M-71 #6204 and two I-185 M-82 went through front line combat testing between December of 1942 and January of 1943. Speed and climb rate of this prototype were vastly superior to all contemporary Soviet fighters. However due to political reason and lobbying from Polikarpov's enemies the project never entered production and was cancelled.
I heard one of Stalin's friends was killed in a plane from Polikarpov series and that was the reason he hated Polikarpov. But hell, this plane is comparable to La7, but came years sooner!
I never knew that! I knew politics killed the project but never Knew Stalin did it for personal reasons. Not surprised at all. TY for this tidbit of info I like learning new things :)
Wait, wait, wait. You want to tell me Stalin actually cared for someone?
Hahahahaha that made my day. that is another thing I learned today!! yay I'm on a roll!