| Technical data | |
|---|---|
| Type | Omega, 2MG |
| Function | experimental |
| Year | 1941 |
| Crew | 1 |
| Engines | 2*220hp MV-6 |
| Rotor diameter | 2*7.0m |
| Length | 8.2m |
| Width (with rotors) | 14.2m |
| Empty weight | 1760kg |
| Loaded weight | 2050kg |
| Rotor (disk) load | 26.7 |
| Power load (kg/hp) | 4.6 |
| Maximum Speed | 186km/h |
| Static Ceiling | 290m |
| Dynamic Ceiling | 700m |
| Range | 250km |
| Payload | |
| Seats | 1 |
Omega / 2MG, by OKB-3 MAI, I.P.Bratukhin
|
When the WWII started, all helicopter related jobs were concentrated in single OKB-3 headed by Ivan Pavlovich Bratukhin.
The "Omega" helicopter was the first product of this bureau. It was two-rotor helicopter of transversal design. Each rotor was driven by separate MV-6 engine linked with synchronizing shaft. This shaft provided also opportunity to fly helicopter with any one of engines running. Unlike primitive powerplants of earlier helicopters (see 1-EA and more on the TsAGI list), engines of "Omega" were equipped with specially designed gearboxes, clutch and other elements typical for modern helicopters.
Fuselage had metal (wielded steel tubes) frame with fabric cover. Airplane type T-shaped tail was used for flight control together with main rotors (also fully instrumented).
Project was approved on June 27, 1940. Aircraft was finished in August 1941, and flight tests began (first - on the tie). Evacuation of the OKB-3 interrupted works on the "Omega" for 1 year. Only in 1943 flight tests started again (pilot K.I.Ponomarev). Tests included takeoffs, landings, 360° turns while hovering, straight flight and sharp turns. Also was tested (on purpose) ability of the helicopter to 'glide' safely with engines shot down, using effect of autorotation.
Modifications: Omega-II
Sources [6], Vol.2 p.434;
