Yakovlev Yak-141 Freestyle
Summary
| Category | Combat aircraft |
| Origin country | 🇨🇳 Ex-USSR |
| First flight | 9 March 1987 |
| Year of introduction | |
| Number produced | 4 units |
Description
The Yak-141 Freestyle was originally intended to be the second generation of Russian vertical takeoff and landing naval fighters, replacing the Yak-38 Forger on the Kiev-class aircraft carriers. However, due to a lack of funds, its development was halted.
The Yak-38 had several operational limitations, such as subsonic speed, low payload capacity, and rudimentary avionics, making it inevitable that it would be replaced. Designed as an interceptor for fleet defense, with ground attack and anti-ship capabilities, the Yak-141 features a multimode radar similar to that of the MiG-29, although with a less powerful antenna. The pilot is equipped with an integrated targeting helmet.
The aircraft's design adheres to the principles of Soviet VTOL aircraft, combining a horizontal R-79 engine with two tandem-mounted vertical engines behind the cockpit. The innovation lies in the fact that the R-79 engine has thrust vectoring, allowing it to be adjustable for landing/takeoff or for providing cruising speed for the Yak-141. Additionally, Yakovlev incorporated composite materials, which make up 28% of the aircraft's fuselage. Although Russia had to halt its development, it is attempting to market the aircraft internationally, particularly in Asia and South America.
Technical specifications
| Version: Yak-41M | |
|---|---|
| Crew | 1 pilot |
| Maximum speed | 1800 km/h (1118 mph) |
| Wing area | 31.7 m² (341.2 sqft) |
| Wingspan | 10.1 m (33.2 ft) |
| Height | 5 m (16.4 ft) |
| Length | 18.4 m (60.2 ft) |
| Service ceiling | 15500 m (50853 ft) |
| Empty weight | 11650 kg (25684 lbs) |
| Max. takeoff weight | 19500 kg (42990 lbs) |
| Climb rate | 250.0 m/s (820.2 ft/s) |
| Powerplant | 1 × turbojet Kobchenko R-79V-300 delivering 11022 kgp, up to 15499 kgp with afterburner; 2 × turbojets Rybinsk RD-41 delivering 4100 kgp |
Current operating countries
No country is operating the Yak-141 Freestyle in 2025.
All operators
Photo of Yak-141 Freestyle
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