The Polikarpov TB-2, an experimental heavy bomber developed and evaluated during the 1920s, showcased the innovative design approach of the Soviet Union.
This aircraft featured a sesquiplane configuration, characterised by its wooden construction and engines positioned on the lower wing.
The development of the sole prototype commenced in 1927, and by 1930, it underwent rigorous testing.
Despite outperforming the Tupolev TB-1, the primary bomber in service during that period, the TB-2 fell short of meeting the requirements set for 1930.
Consequently, the project was ultimately abandoned. Specifications Crew 5 Length 17.6 m (57 ft 9 in) Wingspan 27 m (88 ft 7 in) Wing area 128 m2 (1,380 sq ft) Airfoil Clark Y (16%) Empty weight 4,220 kg (9,304 lb) Gross weight 6,770 kg (14,925 lb) Powerplant 2 × BMW VI V-12 water-cooled piston engines, 373 kW (500 hp) each Propellers 2-bladed fixed-pitch propellers Performance Maximum speed 216 km/h (134 mph, 117 kn) Range 1,200 km (750 mi, 650 nmi) Service ceiling 6,800 m (22,300 ft) Time to altitude 3,000 m (9,843 ft) in 12 minutes Wing loading 53 kg/m2 (11 lb/sq ft) Power/mass 0.110 kW/kg (0.067 hp/lb) Take-off run 210 m (689 ft) Landing run 180 m (591 ft) Horizontal turn time 26 s.
