Tag: Polikarpov I-16

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Kermit Weeks Films Visit With Possible New Acquisition: Polikarpov I-16

Kermit Weeks has posted a new video detailing his recent trip to the old CAF Museum in Midland, Texas to examine an available Polikarpov I-16 that he was considering purchasing.

The I-16 was the last of Nikolai Polikarpov’s fighter designs to enter production. An aircraft of revolutionary design, the I-16 was the first monoplane fighter with an enclosed cockpit and retractable landing gear to enter front line service anywhere in the world. It’s operational status introduced a new standard to fighter design.

According to the original listing, the aircraft (N30425 / S/N 2421645) was rebuilt in Russia by the original factory for the New Zealand-based Alpine Fighter Collection.

Click below to check out the new video and learn if Kermit will be adding the aircraft to his collection.

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Polikarpov I-16-24 “Rata” Offered For Sale

Please Note: This is an archived post. The information presented here may not be current and the associated listing may no longer be active.

Polikarpov I-16 N30425 (S/N 2421645) has hit the market. The listing states (in part):

This aircraft was rebuilt in Russia by the original factory for the Alpine Fighter Collection in New Zealand. The Alpine Fighter Collection recovered the remains of 6 I-16. Currently based in Midland Texas. The aircraft will need overhaul of the installed engine. A second spare core engine is included.

The airframe has reportedly amassed 50 hrs since new, while the ASH-62 engine has 50 hours since overhaul. The machine is currently available for $375,000. Click here to check out the complete listing.

(via Trade-a-Plane Photo: BACbKA via Wikimedia Commons)