Warplane Parade: Yak-1M

Aces!

This week's Warplane Parade centers on the Soviet Yak-1M, a quick and fierce fighter that has seen its share of combat. Read on to get a brief history lesson, learn its performance strength and what you can do for a chance at Gold!

History

Nicknamed Moskit (mosquito), the Yak-1M was a fighter prototype that would lead to the Yak-3. Designed as a smaller, lighter version of the Yak-1, the 1M's wingspan was reduced by three feet, with its wing area trimmed down by 14 percent. The rear fuselage was cut for better rear visibility; an improvement that the pilots of the Yak-1 were pleased with.

Two Yak-1M prototypes were produced in 1943, and tests were extremely positive. The armament for the second prototype, “Dooblyor,” was changed from a ShVAK cannon to a ShA-20M canon, and added a second 12.7mm UBS machine gun. The “Dooblyor,” already extremely maneuverable, could reach a top speed of 651 km/h, and with its more effective radiators, it could harness the power of its 1,240 horsepower M-105PF-2 engine while maintaining efficient temperatures.

Based on its performance, the Yak-1M “Dooblyor” went into production as the Yak-3.

In-Game Performance

The Yak-1M has excellent speed, good energy retention, and boasts superior turning ability against most other tier VI fighters, allowing for easy maneuvering in dogfights. As the Yak-1M historically had a plywood covering for its rear fuselage, it doesn’t have the highest HP, so try to stay within optimum altitudes and on the enemy's tail. The firepower of the Yak-1M is enough to do the job; it’s recommended that pilots upgrade the stock 7.62mm machine guns to the two 12.7mm UBS heavy machine guns, and use them in combination with the 20mm cannon to bring the hurt to enemies.

 Contests 

Test Performance

The Yak-1M prototype performed so well during testing that it was noted in reports that “[The Yak-1M] is exemplary for all fighter aircraft, both indigenous and foreign.” Prove the test results right this week by taking down the most enemy planes in a Yak-1M, and you will win 2,000! The number of planes destroyed will be calculated from Monday, July 21 to Friday, July 25 at 23:59 PDT.

Put it Into Production

The Yak-1M was recommended to replace the Yak-1 and Yak-7s in Russia’s fighter lineup, and went into production as the Yak-3. From Monday, July 21 to Friday, July 25, 23:59 PDT, the pilot that "produces" the most XP will earn 2000!

Creative Contests

Create a paper prototype of the Yak-1M for more chances to win prizes! Click the Forum link below!