- Yes
- No
Background
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The MDR-5 was a twin-engine monoplane constructed entirely of metal, featuring engines positioned on the leading edge of its wings. Two prototypes were produced simultaneously: one as a flying boat and the other as an amphibious aircraft equipped with wheels. The central sections of the engine cowlings were designed as flaps, while the lower sections, when opened, functioned as footrests. Bomb racks were installed on the wing beams, which were covered with fairings, allowing for the attachment of bombs in various configurations.
The initial aircraft was completed in May 1938, however, it was destroyed during landing on September 10, 1938, due to its high landing speed and was not repaired, although the crew sustained no injuries.
Testing continued with the second prototype of the MDR-5. The first flight occurred on January 19, 1939, during which issues with the landing gear were identified. To enhance the vessel’s seaworthiness in waves, the bow of the flying boat was extended by 30 centimeters, the amphibious landing gear was removed, and the wheel compartments were sealed.
From May 14, 1939, factory tests of the naval version of the MDR-5 were ongoing. The aircraft demonstrated commendable flight performance during these evaluations, maintaining stable flight on a single engine and executing various maneuvers. The force required on the control yoke and pedals was deemed normal, and the piloting skills necessary for operation were considered to be at least of average proficiency.
In contrast to Chetverikov’s flying boat, it was inferior in terms of speed and effective flight range. Furthermore, the rate of climb was also suboptimal, primarily due to the insufficient power of the engine. Consequently, in the competition for long-range maritime reconnaissance projects, the MDR-6 aircraft, designed by I.V. Chetverikov’s team, was favored. This aircraft exhibited superior flight characteristics and was subsequently mass-produced.
Technical Data
Specifications
Crew - 5
Length - 15.88 m
Height - N/A
Wingspan - 25 m
Empty Weight - 6,083 kg
Gross Weight - 8,000 kg
Max Takeoff Weight - 9,200 kg
Powerplant - 2 x Tumansky M-87A Radial Engines (708 kW each)
Max Speed - 283 km/h at Sea Level 345 km/h at ?(N/A)
Landing speed - 120 km/h
Service Ceiling - 8,150 m
Range - 2,415 km
Armament
2 x 7.62mm ShKAS Machine gun in Nose Turret
1 x 7.62mm ShKAS in Dorsal Turret (One source states it may be a 12.7mm UBT)
1 x 7.62mm ShKAS in Ventral Turret
1,000 kg of Bombs or Depth Charges
Images
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Sources
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Beriev MDR-5 Marine long-range recognaissance aircraft (airpages.ru)
(Book) The Osprey Encyclopedia of Russian Aircraft 1875-1995.