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Yakolev Yak-9  Yak-9U
A development of the experimental Yak-7DI fighter, the original Yakolev Yak-9 differed in having a revised rudder and wooden wings incorporating metal spars; the series version, which entered production in the summer of 1942, also introduced a retractable tail-wheel.
Deliveries to V-VS lAPs (fighter regiments) began in October 1942 and the type was soon engaged in the Battle of Stalingrad. By February 1943 production aircraft were being built with reduced-span wings that incorporated duralumin ribs and with the initial powerplant (an M105PF or M-105PF-1) being replaced by the 925kW M-105PF-3. The Yak- 9 operated with a wide variety of armament, including all types of aircraft cannon then in production in the Soviet Union, and during 1943 there appeared variants which developed the full potential of the Yak-9 for use in anti-tank, light bomber and long-range escort roles.
The Yak-9D appeared in 1943, primarily intended for bomber escort duties, having a reduced armament and sufficient extra fuel to give a maximum range of 882 miles.
 The second generation of Yak-9s began with the Yak-911 prototype of late 1943, which introduced a redesigned airframe, a new wing of increased span and area, and the more powerful VK-107 engine; to overcome resulting centre of gravity problems the wing was moved slightly forward.
The 1943 Yak-9T appeared in 1943 in two versions. The second version was armed with a single 75mm connon for anti-shipping duties.
Later variants, differing primarily in armament and equipment installations, included the Yak-9L and Yak-9M.
The Yak-9U, an improved and cleaner-looking model, was powered by a 1650 hp M-107A engine, had entered production before the war ended and, with the Yak-9P (the final version) equipped Soviet and satellite squadrons for many years afterwards.
Production of the Yak-9 ended in 1946 after a record 16,769 aircraft had been delivered. Main post-war operators, apart from the Soviet Union, were Bulgaria, Poland, French Normandie Squadron and Yugoslavia.
Some Yaks were fitted with either a 37 mm or 75 mm cannon for anti‑tank use.
Yak-9T
Length: 28 ft
Span: 32 ft 9.75 in
Max speed: 382 mph
Armament: 1 x 30mm AT cannon, 1 x 12.7mm mg
Yak-9T
Engine: Klimov M-105PF, 1260 hp
Span: 32 ft 9.75 in
Length: 28 ft 0 in
Height: 8 ft 0 in
Empty weight: 6063 lb
Loaded weight: 7055 lb
Max speed: 363 mph at 16,400 ft
Service ceiling: 36,090 ft
Normal range: 516 miles
Armament: 1 x 30mm Nudelman cannon, 1 x 12.7mm Beresin mg
Seats: 1  Yakolev Yak-9
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