Tupolev ANT-37

Tupolev · Soviet Union · first flew 1935 · bomber

The Tupolev ANT-37 (DB-2) was a Soviet long-range twin-engine bomber of 1935, a large-span design optimised for range that also served as the basis for record-breaking long-distance flights.

Recognition (WEFT)

W — WingsMid-mounted, tapered
E — Engines2 × piston, wing-mounted
F — FuselageSlender fuselage with very long wing span for the era
T — TailTwin fin

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Distinguished by its exceptionally long wingspan relative to fuselage length, twin radial nacelles set well out along the tapered wings, and the twin-fin tail characteristic of Tupolev long-range designs of the period.

Specifications

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

History

Developed as a long-range bomber, the ANT-37 featured a very wide wing to achieve the range required for deep strategic missions. A modified version designated 'Rodina' was used in 1938 by a female crew led by Valentina Grizodubova to set a women's long-distance record from Moscow to the Soviet Far East.

Variants

The DB-2 bomber and the record-modified 'Rodina' were the principal variants; neither entered large-scale production.

Where you'll see it

Very limited Soviet bomber service; the type is best remembered for the long-distance record flight.

Related aircraft

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