Beriev Be-2

Beriev · Soviet Union · first flew 1936 · transport aircraft

The Beriev Be-2 (also known as the KOR-1) was a Soviet single-engine floatplane developed in the mid-1930s for catapult-launched shipboard reconnaissance duties. It was one of the early designs from Georgi Beriev's design bureau.

Recognition (WEFT)

W — WingsHigh-mounted, straight
E — Engines1 × piston, wing-mounted
F — Fuselage8.67 m fuselage
T — TailConventional

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A compact single-engine biplane or parasol floatplane with a central float and wing-tip stabilising floats. Small size and shipboard catapult fittings distinguish it from larger Soviet maritime types.

Specifications

Figures are for the representative variant described above; marks differ. See how AircraftIQ sources figures.

History

Designed in the early 1930s and first flown in 1936, the Be-2/KOR-1 was intended to be launched from Soviet cruisers and battleships to provide reconnaissance capability. The type encountered difficulties during trials and was built in limited numbers before being replaced by the improved Be-4/KOR-2. It represents the early development of Beriev's specialisation in maritime aircraft.

Variants

The KOR-1 was the primary form; the improved KOR-2 (Be-4) replaced it in production.

Where you'll see it

Operated in small numbers by the Soviet Naval Aviation from cruiser catapults in the late 1930s; replaced before World War II became a major factor.

Related aircraft

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