For the first time, a Ukrainian Yak-52 propeller-driven trainer has appeared with markings that could indicate a string of aerial victories against Russian drones.
  • tal@lemmy.todayOPEnglish
    12·
    5 months ago

    Reports so far indicate that the Yak-52 carries a gunner in the rear cockpit, who takes aim on drones using some kind of infantry weapon, likely a light machine gun.

    Prop planes engaging in gun combat hasn’t been much of a thing since WW2, aside from some sporadic incidents using World War-era hardware:

    https://www.wearethemighty.com/mighty-history/the-last-dogfight-between-propeller-airplanes-happened-in-central-america/

    The last dogfight between propeller airplanes happened in Central America

    In 1969, Honduras and El Salvador fought a brief but explosive war that lasted 100 hours.

    But it may make a lot of sense in the context of countering UAVs.

    • bluGill@kbin.run
      1·
      5 months ago

      Drones in a lot of ways resemble post WWI or early WWII aircraft - slow speed (not jet powered) and so what worked back then still works. Will drones move to high speed jet powered aircraft or remain slow speed - that is an open question (and a mix might be correct), only time will tell.