| Technical data | |
|---|---|
| Type | La-7R |
| Function | Experimental fighter |
| Year | 1944 |
| Crew | 1 |
| Engines |
1*1850hp M-82 1*300kg RD-1 |
| Wing area | 17.59m2 |
| Empty weight | 2703kg |
| Loaded weight | 3500kg |
| Wing Load (kg/m2) | 199 |
| Power load (kg/hp) | 1.9 |
| Speed at ?m | 752km/h |
| Ceiling | 13000m |
| Payload | |
| Fuel | 604kg |
| Armament | |
| Guns | 2*20mm B-20 |
La-7R by S.A.Lavochkin
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In the very end of 1944 Lavochkin KB built two experimental variants of popular La-7 fighter with additional RD-1 and RD-1KhZ liquid rocket engines. Those engines provided 300kg of thrust and differed only by ignition system.
RD-1 units were installed in the small fairing under the tailplane (which was raised to provide the room for engine). Rocket fuel consisted of 90l kerosene and 180l H2NO3. Fuel tanks for 'native' piston engine could hold in this configuration only 215kg of gasoline.
During trials (15 flights by pilots G.M.Shijanov and A.V.Davydov) two non-fatal accident took place, both involving explosion of the RD-1 booster. On May 12, 1945 RD-1 exploded on the ground. Another explosion took place during flight, but strong airframe of the La-7 and G.M.Shijanov's skills saved the aircraft. It was demonstrated later (August 18, 1946) at Tushino aviation parade with operating RD-1.
Despite RD-1 allowed to gain 80km/h for short 3...3.5km/h, handling and maneuverability suffered. It was obvious that more efforts are needed.
| References | Links |
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