Soviet Sukhoi Su-2

The Soviet Sukhoi Su-2 was a scout and light bomber aircraft It was primarily used in the early parts of World War Two.

Development started in 1936 with a request for a multipurpose combat aircraft to carry out reconnaissance and the ability to attack targets located. The project was codenamed, "Ivanov". The "Ivanov" was designed by P.O. Sukhoi who working in the Tupolev OKB.

On 25 August 1937, the prototype ANT-51 made its first flight and reached 403 km/h (220 knots, 250 mph) at 4 700 m (15,420 ft). In order to reach greater speed the prototype was fitted with a Tumansky M-87 engine and was then accepted into production as the BB-1, later renamed as the Su-2. An upgraded Tumansky M-88 engine was used.

Just over 800 Su-2s and Su-4s were constructed. However, the Su-2 did not see much action and was soon withdrawn to to its vulnerable performance.

Soviet Secret Projects: Fighters Since 1945

Brief on Russian Defence, Trade, Security and Energy