Tupolev TB-5

Tupolev / Moscow Aviation Plant No. 39 · Soviet Union · first flew 1931 · bomber

The Tupolev TB-5 was a Soviet twin-engine heavy biplane bomber of the early 1930s, representing an important step in Soviet strategic bombing capability between the earlier biplane designs and the landmark all-metal TB-3 monoplane that followed.

Recognition (WEFT)

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Spot it by:

• Soviet interwar heavy biplane bomber with two engines mounted in the leading edge
• Open gunner positions in nose and dorsal stations
• Transitional design between the TB-3 monoplane era and earlier biplane heavy bombers

A large biplane with two engines mounted in the wing leading edge or in tractors between the wings, with substantial fixed undercarriage, open gun positions, and the slab-sided fuselage typical of Soviet heavy aircraft of the period.

Specifications

• The Tupolev TB-5 has a length of 22.1 m (73 ft).
• It has a wingspan of 31 m (102 ft).
• Its maximum speed is 180 km/h (112 mph).
• Typical crew: 6-8.

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

History

The TB-5 entered service in 1931 and equipped several heavy bomber squadrons of the Soviet Air Force (VVS). Its service life was relatively short as the far superior TB-3 monoplane entered production in the same period; the TB-5 was progressively withdrawn and relegated to training duties by the mid-1930s.

Variants

Limited variants including seaplane and alternative engine fits; the TB-5 family was quickly superseded and not extensively developed.

Where you'll see it

Operated by the Soviet VVS from 1931 to approximately 1936 in the heavy bomber role before replacement by the TB-3; not exported.

Related aircraft

• Amiot 143
• Avions Amiot 140
• Dornier Do Y
• Douglas Y1B-7

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