Yakovlev Yak-6

Yakovlev · Soviet Union · first flew 1942 · transport aircraft

The Yakovlev Yak-6 was a Soviet twin-engine light transport aircraft produced during World War II, used for communications, liaison, and light cargo duties. It was of simple all-wood construction to conserve scarce metal.

Recognition (WEFT)

W — Wings	Mid-mounted, straight
E — Engines	2 × piston, wing-mounted
F — Fuselage	10.35 m fuselage
T — Tail	Conventional

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Soviet WWII twin-engine light transport and liaison aircraft
All-wooden construction with fabric covering
Used for VIP transport, liaison and light cargo roles

A small, angular twin-engine monoplane with a boxy fuselage and fixed tailwheel undercarriage; the wooden construction gives the surfaces a slightly uneven appearance compared to metal contemporaries.

Specifications

The Yakovlev Yak-6 has a length of 10.35 m (34 ft).
It has a wingspan of 14 m (46 ft).
Its maximum speed is 187 km/h (116 mph).
Typical crew: 2.

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

History

Designed rapidly in 1942 to meet wartime needs for a light transport, the Yak-6 entered production the same year. Approximately 381 were built before production ended in 1943. The type served alongside the Li-2 (Soviet-built Douglas DC-3) and filled the niche for a smaller, simpler communications aircraft.

Variants

A bomber variant was proposed but not produced; the main production version was the transport/liaison type.

Where you'll see it

Served with the Soviet Air Force and various auxiliary units throughout WWII; a small number were also exported to Soviet-aligned forces.

Related aircraft

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