Zveno-1, V.S.Vakhmistrov/ A.N.Tupolev

The first in series of experiments (see Vakhmistrov's Zveno), aimed (mostly) on fighter range increase. The first 'composite aircraft' included TB-1 carrier and pair of modified I-4 fighters, which were rolled on the wing via special ramps. Parasite fighters were attached to the carrier by three locks. One on the pyramid under the tail was released by fighter pilot, than two other were released automatically.

First flight was performed on December 3, 1931 by A.I.Zalevskij (pilot) and co-pilot A.R.Sharapov (TB-1), V.P.Chkalov and A.F.Anisimov (parasite fighters). Chkalov's I-4 detached perfectly, while A.F.Anisimov had a delay because pyramid was deformed and the lock was opened slower than expected. Experiment was considered a success, and flights continued.

Trials performed again on 1 to 8 April 1932. NII VVS recomended series production of the parasite fighter mounts.

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Special note different sources put the first flight of 'Zveno-1' from 1930 or December 22 1932.

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References	Links
"History of aircraft construction in the USSR", Vol.1 p.503-506;	Zveno-1 by Ken Duffey - great model!