TsAGI A-6

Central Aerohydrodynamic Institute (TsAGI) · Soviet Union · first flew 1933 · light aircraft

The TsAGI A-6 was a Soviet autogyro developed at the Central Aerohydrodynamic Institute in 1933, part of an extensive programme of rotary-wing research conducted throughout the 1930s. It used a free-spinning rotor for lift while a conventional propeller provided thrust.

Recognition (WEFT)

W — Wings	High-mounted, straight
E — Engines	1 × piston, nose-mounted
F — Fuselage	Single unpowered rotor above fuselage
T — Tail	Conventional

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Soviet interwar autogyro
Single unpowered rotor above fuselage
Tractor propeller with fixed stub wings

A conventional-looking light aircraft from the fuselage forward, but immediately identified by the large unpowered autorotating rotor mounted above the fuselage on a pylon; small fixed stub wings provide some additional lift.

Specifications

The TsAGI A-6 has a length of 7.5 m (25 ft).
It has a wingspan of 12 m (39 ft).
Its maximum speed is 160 km/h (99 mph).
Typical crew: 1-2.

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

History

The A-6 was one of several TsAGI autogyros developed during the 1930s Soviet rotary-wing programme, which also included Kamov's designs. The programme evaluated autogyros for agricultural, liaison, and military observation roles, with some types entering limited service.

Variants

The A-series comprised multiple designs (A-4, A-6, A-7, A-8, A-12 and others), each representing distinct designs rather than variants of a single type.

Where you'll see it

Evaluated for military observation and agricultural use; operational service was limited and the autogyro programme was eventually superseded by helicopter development.

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