Bolkhovitinov S Sparka High Speed Bomber
The Bolkhovitinov S Sparka (Russian for “Twin”) was Soviet twin-engine light bomber and reconnaissance aircraft prototype that first flew on 29 January 1940. The two engines were placed in tandem, with each driving a propeller mounted on the nose. The first prototype was only fitted with one engine and had ski undercarriage. It was only intended to evaluate the airframe. The second prototype had both of the planned Klimov M-103 engines fitted.
The state testing began on March 20, 1940, and lasted until July 1940. The maximum speed reached was 570 kilometres per hour (350 mph). The plane had good handling, except for take-off and landing, which were difficult due to high wing loading. Its range and speed were also lower than estimated. As a result, it was decided to improve the plane further. However, further development was later stopped in favour of subsequent Bolkhovitinov designs.
The Sparka was capable of carrying four 100 kilogram (220 lb) bombs carried vertically in a bay between the pilot and the rear gunner-navigator, under a common canopy. Defensive armament was one 7.62mm ShKAS machine gun on a flexible mount in rear cockpit.
