Sukhoi T-3

Sukhoi · Soviet Union · first flew 1956 · fighter

The Sukhoi T-3 was a Soviet experimental delta-wing interceptor prototype that first flew in 1956 and directly led to the production Su-9 all-weather interceptor. It was part of Sukhoi's family of tailed-delta fighter development aircraft.

Recognition (WEFT)

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Spot it by:

• Soviet experimental delta-wing interceptor prototype, 1956
• Tailed delta layout, large nose intake, single turbojet
• Direct precursor to the production Sukhoi Su-9 interceptor

Slender tailed-delta interceptor with a large circular nose intake, single engine, and delta wings without leading-edge extensions — a clean pure-delta supersonic silhouette.

Specifications

• The Sukhoi T-3 has a length of 16.75 m (55 ft).
• It has a wingspan of 8.43 m (28 ft).
• Its maximum speed is 2100 km/h (1305 mph).
• Typical crew: 1.

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

History

The T-3 was developed to evaluate the tailed-delta configuration for a new Soviet interceptor capable of high-speed high-altitude performance. It successfully demonstrated the aerodynamic concept and the programme culminated in the Su-9 entering service. Several T-series development aircraft were built to refine the design before production.

Variants

The T-3 was one of a family of Sukhoi development aircraft including the T-43, T-47, and T-49 that collectively led to the Su-9 and Su-11 interceptors.

Where you'll see it

The T-3 was a pure experimental prototype and never entered service; its successor the Su-9 served with Soviet Air Defence Forces from 1959.

Related aircraft

• Sukhoi P-1
• Sukhoi Su-9
• Sukhoi Su-11
• Sukhoi T-58
• Aerfer Sagittario 2
• Breguet 1050 Alizé
• Convair F-106 Delta Dart
• Dassault Etendard IV

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