“UT-1” – the USSR school – training airplane

UT-1 (AIR-14) is a small-sized (wing area of ​​only 8.3 sq. m.) school - training single-pilot low-wing monoplane with an open cabin. The aircraft was developed as a transition from a two-seater high-speed monoplane and as a training aircraft for future fighter pilots. Aircraft with the 100 h. p. power engine M-11 state tests took place in 1936. The AF SRI report noted the aircraft's excellent maneuverability, good figure performance and ease of service. But the plane reacted harshly to pilot errors, which made it close in characteristics to the fighter I-16. Serial production of the UT-1 began in the autumn of 1936 in two factories, one of which did not produce airplanes at all until then. Therefore, initially there were some difficulties, the main of which was the fact, that it was not immediately possible to organize the welding of the fuselage trusses and the installation of the engines - the deformations, arising from the welding, hindered. Little by little, the workers and factory engineers found their own welding methods (sometimes even without the help of the pilot plant) and everything started to go smoothly. 1241 airplanes of this brand were produced in 1937-1940. The UT-1 has broken 8 international records for speed, take-off height and flight distance. In 1939 the UT-1 engine mount was extended by 260 mm; the centering of the plane became more forward. As a result, the longitudinal stability of the plane improved and piloting became easier. At the same time, the engine group was adapted for wheel-up flight. The exceptional piloting and aerobatic qualities of the plane allowed these planes to remain in aviation schools until the fifties of the 20th century, and they were highly valued by pilots -aerobatic masters.

An uncomplicated, well-detailed, well-designed little model for a modeler of any experience. Working under the supervision of a more experienced colleague, this model can be assembled by both advanced beginners and novice modelers.