KaSkr-1
Kamov-Skrzhinsky OKB · Soviet Union · first flew 1929 · helicopter
The KaSkr-1 was the first Soviet autogyro, designed by Nikolai Kamov and Nikolai Skrzhinsky, who would each go on to distinguished careers in Soviet rotorcraft development.
Recognition (WEFT)
| W — Wings | High-mounted, rotary |
|---|---|
| E — Engines | 1 × piston, nose-mounted |
| F — Fuselage | open-cockpit biplane fuselage with a large three-blade autogyro rotor |
| T — Tail | Conventional |
WEFT is AircraftIQ's four-point recognition method — how it works.
Spot it by:
- Soviet Union's first autogyro
- open-cockpit biplane fuselage with a large three-blade autogyro rotor
- tractor propeller with conventional fixed wings retained
The KaSkr-1 blends the open-cockpit biplane fuselage of its Avro 504 donor with a large freely-spinning three-blade rotor above — the classic autogyro hybrid appearance. Fixed lower wings provide additional lift, distinguishing it from later pure autogyros that dispensed with the auxiliary wings.
Specifications
- The KaSkr-1 has a length of 7 m (23 ft).
- It has a wingspan of 12 m (39 ft).
- Its maximum speed is 110 km/h (68 mph).
- Typical crew: 2.
Figures are for the representative variant described above; marks differ. See how AircraftIQ sources figures.
History
Inspired by Juan de la Cierva's autogyro patents, Kamov and Skrzhinsky built the KaSkr (named from their surnames) on a converted Avro 504 fuselage structure. First flown in 1929, it demonstrated the autogyro principle to Soviet aviation authorities and led to further Soviet rotary-wing research. Kamov later founded the Kamov OKB, renowned for coaxial helicopter designs.
Variants
The KaSkr-1 was the prototype; a refined KaSkr-2 followed with modifications based on initial flight tests.
Where you'll see it
Used as a research and demonstration vehicle by Soviet aviation authorities in the early 1930s. Not produced in quantity.
Related aircraft
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