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Scale 1:20  Length 14.3"  Wingspan 16"

Photography by Action Asia Photo
© 2002-8 Action Asia Photo - All Rights Reserved
www.actionasiaphoto.com

Alexander Sergeevich Yakovlev, head of Department of Light Aircraft, established the Yakovlev Company in 1934. The company, based in an old bed factory in Russia, ran an experimental aviation plant while producing new planes for the Russian military. Many different Yakovlev aircraft were produced but none have the aerobatic capability of the Yak-55 designed in the late 1970's by Slava Kondratiev - then Russia’s foremost aircraft designer.

The prototype flew in May 1981 and was shown to the West in 1982. However, the Russian Aerobatic Team wasn’t equipped with Yak 55s until 1984 - when it immediately won the World Championships. Its fast rate of roll, great visibility, roomy cockpit, low maintenance and easy handling made the Yak-55 a favorite among other aerobatic teams as well. One unique characteristic about the Yak-55 is the engine that rotates the propeller opposite of most aircraft. It also has a perfectly symmetrical wing thickness which gives great strength. Otherwise the aircraft is of conventional monocoque all- metal construction.

The Yak-55M (designed in the mid-1980s) has a shorter wingspan to permit it to roll quicker. However, many feel that the consequent increase of "induced drag" is a step backwards. In an aerobatic sequence the 55M will roll faster but lose more height than the longer winged 55.