M-11/SchM-11, D.P.Grigorovich/ S.S.Schetinin

First in the World flying boat fighter. M-11 was designed by D.P.Grigorovich following order of Naval Headquarters. It was much smaller than predecessing observation flying boats (M-5 or M-9) and more clean 'wing box' - less struts and wires. Engine was covered with clean egg-shaped fairing.

First built M-11 was a two-seater (left). Observer (in the nose) had movable machinegun. Few were built later for training purposes during transition from M-5/M-9 to M-11.

Single-seater was armed with fixed machinegun in the nose and armored (first armored fighter?) Armor disk (flush with engine fairing) protected the engine. Cockpit windscreen was replaced by armor screen with narrow sight, sometimes this sight was replaced by periscope. In some aircraft pair of 4mm armor plates (25mm apart) were installed in front of the pilot (armor weight not included in the Empty Weight!). This was welcomed by pilots, and large production series were started (~160).

In the mid- 1916 it was the fastest flying boat (until Engels built his MI flying boat). But M-11 was not entirely successful. Limitations came from small size: it was not as seaworthy as larger M-5 and M-9. Propeller reaction also added some complications in handling. For ski operation tailfin area had to be increased.

Despite built as a fighter, more common service became an observation. Here small range became a disadvantage. It was also hard to escort and protect M-9 due to large difference in speed. As a result only 60 entered service with the Naval Aviation, the rest were not finished.

In service until the end of the Civil War.

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Predecessor(s):	Modification(s):
-	M-12

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More Links...

• M-11
• M-11, Grigorovich

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References:
• "History of aircraft construction in the USSR", Vol.1 p.245-248;

Modified October 31, 1997

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