Country of Origin: CIS
Role: VTOL naval attack and reconnaissance
Crew: One
Wing Span: 25ft (7.6m)
Length: 49ft 3in (15m)
Height: 13ft 3in (4m)
Wing Area: 199.14sq ft (18.5sq m)
Empty Weight: 16,200lb (7,350kg)
Max Loaded Weight: 25,794lb (11,700kg)
Powerplant: One Lyukla AL-21 turbojet producing 17,985lb (8,160kg) thrust and two Koliesov ZM turbojets producing 7,875lb (3,570kg) thrust
Max Speed (sea level): 647mph (1,041km/h)
Max Speed (at altitude): 627mph (1,00km/h)
Max Range (ferry): 1,600nm (2,575km)
Max Range (loaded): N/A
Fixed Armament: None
Disposable Armament: 7,936lb (3,600kg) on four hardpoints
First Flight: 1971
Users: CIS
Background:
The only other operational fixed wing aircraft capable of making VTOL take off and landings, the Yak-36 is generally considered to be inferior to the older Harrier. The main reason for this is the cruder propulsion system with separate engines required for lift and forward movement, this cumbersome arangement means that there is a distinct lack of room for internal fuel and avionics limiting the capability of the Yak-36. However thhe Yak-36 should not be derided as it is the only other VTOL capable aircraft in the world and it does sport some unique capabilities. Foremost among these is the automatic landing system which means that the aircraft is landed by computer from the aircraft carrier making the Yak-36 capable of landing in any conditions and even if the pilot is incapable of full control. In addition the aircraft was heavily derided by NATO defence analysts but now it is realised that although the Yak-36 is not in the same class as the Harrier it was a useful testbed in fixed wing naval aviation for the Soviet navy.