Difference between revisions of "Yak-9U"

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{{Specs-Card|code=yak-9u}}
 
 
{{About
 
{{About
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| about = Russian fighter '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
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| about = Soviet fighter '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
 
| usage = other versions
 
| usage = other versions
 
| link = Yak-9 (Family)
 
| link = Yak-9 (Family)
 +
}}
 +
{{Specs-Card
 +
|code=yak-9u
 +
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg}}
 
}}
 
}}
  
 
== Description ==
 
== Description ==
 
<!-- ''In the description, the first part should be about the history of and the creation and combat usage of the aircraft, as well as its key features. In the second part, tell the reader about the aircraft in the game. Insert a screenshot of the vehicle, so that if the novice player does not remember the vehicle by name, he will immediately understand what kind of vehicle the article is talking about.'' -->
 
<!-- ''In the description, the first part should be about the history of and the creation and combat usage of the aircraft, as well as its key features. In the second part, tell the reader about the aircraft in the game. Insert a screenshot of the vehicle, so that if the novice player does not remember the vehicle by name, he will immediately understand what kind of vehicle the article is talking about.'' -->
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[[File:GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg|420px|thumb|left]]
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The '''Yakovlev Yak-9U''' was the sixth variant of the [[Yak-9 (Family)|Yak-9 fighter aircraft family]]. The aircraft was based on the [[Yak-9T]] and included significant aerodynamic and structural upgrades similar to the [[Yak-3]]. The Yak-9U was powered by the new Klimov M-107A engine, which produced 1,650 horsepower. The burst mass was 2.72 kg/s. During early test flights in 1943, the only comparable Soviet fighter was the Polikarpov I-185 prototype, but it was more difficult to fly and less agile due to its heavier weight. Except for the P-51B Mustang, which could achieve 710 km/h, the Yak-9U's peak speed of 700 km/h at 5,600 m was quicker than any other production fighter aircraft in the world at the time. Overheating issues during the test flight stage were resolved by expanding the radiators during production. It was the best high-altitude Soviet fighter of its time. The Yak-9U flew 398 sorties for a total of 299 hours. A total of 26 battles were fought, with the majority of them ending in victory.
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{{break}}
 
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The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is a rank {{Specs|rank}} Russian fighter {{Battle-rating}}. It was introduced in [[Update 1.37]].
 
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The [[Yak-9]] was a Soviet single-engine fighter of the WWII era. It was the first combat aircraft designed by Alexander Yakovlev's construction bureau. The most mass-produced Soviet fighter of the war, it remained in production from October 1942 to December 1948, with a total of 16,769 built.
 
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The Yak-9 was a further modification of the [[Yak-1]] and [[Yak-7B]]. In its core design, it was a redesign of the Yak-7. With few external differences, Yak-9 was at the same time much more advanced internally. This is not unexpected, as almost two years of design and combat experience of the Yak series went into the [[Yak-9]]. Also, at the time aluminium was in much greater supply than it had been two years previously at the start of the war. Amongst other things, the use of metal allowed the plane's weight to be significantly reduced, meaning that more fuel could be stored and that the aircraft could be equipped with more powerful armament and more specialised equipment.
 
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The Yak-9U is a redesign of the [[Yak-9]]. The Yak-9U entered into service in 1943, less than an year before the [[Yak-3]] (even though the Yak-3 is before the Yak-9U in the Tech Tree) and has the same armament (2 x [[Berezin UB (12.7 mm)|Berezin UB]] 12.7 mm with 170 rounds per gun and 1 x [[ShVAK (20 mm)|ShVAK cannon]] with 120 shells). The Yak-9U is faster and more resilient, but also heavier.
 
−
 
 
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The Yak-9U is an up-engined Yak-9 equipped with the M-107A engine. It sports competitive speed, far above average turning and roll abilities, good acceleration, a high dive limit (by USSR standards), and keeps nice and crisp controls from speeds as low as 250 km/h to 750 km/h. It is arguably the most underestimated vehicle rank-for-rank in the game and is often skipped by players who view it as just another Yak-9.
 
−
 
 
−
Unlike previous Yak-9s equipped with the VK-105PF engine, the Yak-9U gets a significant upgrade in the form of its M-107A engine (which also happens to be the engine utilized by the premium [[Yak-3 (VK-107)]] and the later [[Yak-9P]]/[[Yak-9UT|UT]]). As such, the Yak-9U is one of the fastest planes at sea level at 4.3 and retains excellent performance up to ~6 km where it can effectively engage higher-speed American and faster climbing German planes. This, combined with the excellent handling and turn-fighting qualities allow the Yak-9U to effectively dictate any engagement- a pilot can turn-fight Bf 109s and P-47s with ease while having the capability to outrun slower yet more manoeuvrable vehicles such as the Spitfire.
 
  
−
At sea level, the Yak-9U can catch most, if not all, planes at 4.3 BR, including the [[P-47 (Family)|P-47]] and [[P-51 (Family)|P-51D]]. Beware, however, as the Yak airframe isn't particularly durable in a dive and will rip at speeds above 750 kph {{Annotation|IAS|Indicated airspeed}}. Thankfully, forcing an opponent down low effectively seals their fate as you and your team perform optimally at low altitude.
+
Introduced in Update 1.37, the Yak-9U is one of the few Yak fighter planes that excels at operating at high altitudes. Unlike previous Yak-9s that were powered by the Klimov M-/VK-105PF engine, the Yak-9U is powered by the Klimov M-/VK-107A engine. As a result, the Yak-9U is among the quickest planes at sea level in its class. Overall, the Yak-9U combines impressive speed, acceleration, climb, and manoeuvrability but comes with a rather mediocre weaponry for its BR. The Yak-9U's engine improvement lets it maintain good performance up to 5,000 m, allowing players to engage in combat with other high-altitude enemy aircraft without being significantly disadvantaged.
  
 
== General info ==
 
== General info ==
 
=== Flight performance ===
 
=== Flight performance ===
−
''Describe how the aircraft behaves in the air. Speed, manoeuvrability, acceleration and allowable loads - these are the most important characteristics of the vehicle.''
+
{{Specs-Avia-Flight}}
 +
<!-- ''Describe how the aircraft behaves in the air. Speed, manoeuvrability, acceleration and allowable loads - these are the most important characteristics of the vehicle.'' -->
 +
The Yak-9U is an up-engined Yak-9 equipped with the M-107A / VK-107A engine. It sports competitive speed, far above average turning and roll abilities, good acceleration, a high dive limit (by USSR standards), and keeps nice and crisp controls from speeds as low as 250 km/h to 750 km/h. It is arguably the most underestimated vehicle rank-for-rank in the game and is often skipped by players who view it as just another Yak-9.
 +
 
 +
Unlike previous Yak-9s equipped with the M-105PF engine, the Yak-9U gets a significant upgrade in the form of its M-107A engine (re-initialled from 1944 to VK-) (which also happens to be the engine utilized by the premium [[Yak-3 (VK-107)]] and the later [[Yak-9P]]/[[Yak-9UT|UT]]). As such, the Yak-9U is one of the fastest planes at sea level at this BR and retains excellent performance up to ~6 km where it can effectively engage higher-speed American and faster climbing German planes. This, combined with the excellent handling and turn-fighting qualities allow the Yak-9U to effectively dictate any engagement- a pilot can turn-fight Bf 109s and P-47s with ease while having the capability to outrun slower yet more manoeuvrable vehicles such as the Spitfire.
  
−
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
+
At sea level, the Yak-9U can catch most, if not all, planes at its BR, including [[P-47 (Family)|P-47]] and [[P-51 (Family)|P-51D]]. Beware, however, as the Yak airframe isn't particularly durable in a dive and will rip at speeds above 720 km/h {{Annotation|IAS|Indicated airspeed}}. Thankfully, forcing an opponent down low effectively seals their fate as you and your team perform optimally at low altitude.
−
|-
+
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="70%"
−
! colspan="8" | Characteristics
+
! rowspan="2" | Characteristics
−
|-
 
−
! colspan="8" | ''Stock''
 
−
|-
 
 
! colspan="2" | Max Speed<br>(km/h at 5,000 m)
 
! colspan="2" | Max Speed<br>(km/h at 5,000 m)
−
! rowspan="2" | Max altitude<br>(meters)
+
! rowspan="2" | Max altitude<br>(metres)
 
! colspan="2" | Turn time<br>(seconds)
 
! colspan="2" | Turn time<br>(seconds)
−
! colspan="2" | Rate of climb<br>(meters/second)
+
! colspan="2" | Rate of climb<br>(metres/second)
−
! rowspan="2" | Take-off run<br>(meters)
+
! rowspan="2" | Take-off run<br>(metres)
 
|-
 
|-
−
! AB
+
! AB !! RB !! AB !! RB !! AB !! RB
−
! RB
 
−
! AB
 
−
! RB
 
−
! AB
 
−
! RB
 
 
|-
 
|-
−
| 652 || 634 || {{Specs|ceiling}} || 20.1 || 20.7 || 14.9 || 14.9 || 380
+
! Stock
 +
| 646 || 631 || rowspan="2" | {{Specs|ceiling}} || 20.1 || 20.7 || 14.9 || 14.9 || rowspan="2" | 380
 
|-
 
|-
−
! colspan="8" | ''Upgraded''
+
! Upgraded
−
|-
+
| 699 || 677 || 18.6 || 19.1 || 22.9 || 18.8
−
! colspan="2" | Max Speed<br>(km/h at 5,000 m)
 
−
! rowspan="2" | Max altitude<br>(meters)
 
−
! colspan="2" | Turn time<br>(seconds)
 
−
! colspan="2" | Rate of climb<br>(meters/second)
 
−
! rowspan="2" | Take-off run<br>(meters)
 
−
|-
 
−
! AB
 
−
! RB
 
−
! AB
 
−
! RB
 
−
! AB
 
−
! RB
 
−
|-
 
−
| 699 || 677 || {{Specs|ceiling}} || 18.6 || 19.1 || 22.9 || 18.8 || 380
 
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
  
 
==== Details ====
 
==== Details ====
−
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
+
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
 
|-
 
|-
 
! colspan="5" | Features
 
! colspan="5" | Features
 
|-
 
|-
−
! Combat flaps
+
! Combat flaps !! Take-off flaps !! Landing flaps !! Air brakes !! Arrestor gear
−
! Take-off flaps
 
−
! Landing flaps
 
−
! Air brakes
 
−
! Arrestor gear
 
 
|-
 
|-
 
| X || X || ✓ || X || X    <!-- ✓ -->
 
| X || X || ✓ || X || X    <!-- ✓ -->
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|}
 
|}
  
−
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
+
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
 
|-
 
|-
−
! colspan="5" | Limits
+
! colspan="7" | Limits
 
|-
 
|-
−
! rowspan="2" | Wing-break speed<br>(km/h)
+
! rowspan="2" | Wings (km/h)
−
! rowspan="2" | Gear limit<br>(km/h)
+
! rowspan="2" | Gear (km/h)
−
! rowspan="2" | Combat flaps<br>(km/h)
+
! colspan="3" | Flaps (km/h)
 
! colspan="2" | Max Static G
 
! colspan="2" | Max Static G
 
|-
 
|-
−
! +
+
! Combat !! Take-off !! Landing !! + !! -
−
! -
 
 
|-
 
|-
−
| {{Specs|destruction|body}} || {{Specs|destruction|gear}} || 410 || ~11 || ~8
+
| 720 <!-- {{Specs|destruction|body}} --> || {{Specs|destruction|gear}} || N/A || N/A || 280 || ~12 || ~9
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
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{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 
|-
 
|-
−
! colspan="4" | Optimal velocities
+
! colspan="4" | Optimal velocities (km/h)
 
|-
 
|-
−
! Ailerons<br>(km/h)
+
! Ailerons !! Rudder !! Elevators !! Radiator
−
! Rudder<br>(km/h)
 
−
! Elevators<br>(km/h)
 
−
! Radiator<br>(km/h)
 
 
|-
 
|-
 
| < 400 || < 420 || < 490 || > 450
 
| < 400 || < 420 || < 490 || > 450
−
|-
 
−
|}
 
−
 
−
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 
−
|-
 
−
! colspan="3" | Compressor (RB/SB)
 
−
|-
 
−
! colspan="3" | Setting 1
 
−
|-
 
−
! Optimal altitude
 
−
! 100% Engine power
 
−
! WEP Engine power
 
−
|-
 
−
| 1,890 m || 1,650 hp || 1,749 hp
 
−
|-
 
−
! colspan="3" | Setting 2
 
−
|-
 
−
! Optimal altitude
 
−
! 100% Engine power
 
−
! WEP Engine power
 
−
|-
 
−
| 4,500 m || 1,500 hp || 1,590 hp
 
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
  
 
=== Survivability and armour ===
 
=== Survivability and armour ===
 +
{{Specs-Avia-Armour}}
 
<!-- ''Examine the survivability of the aircraft. Note how vulnerable the structure is and how secure the pilot is, whether the fuel tanks are armoured, etc. Describe the armour, if there is any, and also mention the vulnerability of other critical aircraft systems.'' -->
 
<!-- ''Examine the survivability of the aircraft. Note how vulnerable the structure is and how secure the pilot is, whether the fuel tanks are armoured, etc. Describe the armour, if there is any, and also mention the vulnerability of other critical aircraft systems.'' -->
  
 
* 64 mm Bulletproof glass in cockpit front and rear.
 
* 64 mm Bulletproof glass in cockpit front and rear.
 
* 8 mm Steel plate behind the pilot.
 
* 8 mm Steel plate behind the pilot.
 +
 +
=== Modifications and economy ===
 +
{{Specs-Economy}}
  
 
== Armaments ==
 
== Armaments ==
 +
{{Specs-Avia-Armaments}}
 
=== Offensive armament ===
 
=== Offensive armament ===
 +
{{Specs-Avia-Offensive}}
 
<!-- ''Describe the offensive armament of the aircraft, if any. Describe how effective the cannons and machine guns are in a battle, and also what belts or drums are better to use. If there is no offensive weaponry, delete this subsection.'' -->
 
<!-- ''Describe the offensive armament of the aircraft, if any. Describe how effective the cannons and machine guns are in a battle, and also what belts or drums are better to use. If there is no offensive weaponry, delete this subsection.'' -->
 
{{main|ShVAK (20 mm)|Berezin UB (12.7 mm)}}
 
{{main|ShVAK (20 mm)|Berezin UB (12.7 mm)}}
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== Usage in battles ==
 
== Usage in battles ==
−
''Describe the tactics of playing in an aircraft, the features of using aircraft in a team and advice on tactics. Refrain from creating a "guide" - do not impose a single point of view, but instead, give the reader food for thought. Examine the most dangerous enemies and give recommendations on fighting them. If necessary, note the specifics of the game in different modes (AB, RB, SB).''
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<!-- ''Describe the tactics of playing in the aircraft, the features of using aircraft in a team and advice on tactics. Refrain from creating a "guide" - do not impose a single point of view, but instead, give the reader food for thought. Examine the most dangerous enemies and give recommendations on fighting them. If necessary, note the specifics of the game in different modes (AB, RB, SB).'' -->
 +
 
 +
The Yak-9U offers incredible speed, acceleration, climb and manoeuvrability with the same complementary firepower. Unlike its VK-105 powered predecessors, which suffered significant power loss above 3,500 m, the VK-107 engine of the Yak-9U retains decent performance up to 5,000 m, allowing you to partake in the initial dogfight of a match without being at a massive disadvantage. Once the air battle has gone down to a lower altitude, your engine performance will go from good to incredible. With a sea level top speed of nearly 600 km/h there's not many planes that can catch or outrun you. Your acceleration, climb rate and energy retention are superior to most other aircraft as well. The turn rate, while not top notch, is still better than a good portion of your competition.
 +
 
 +
However, the Yak-9U is not without its flaws. The engine suffers from overheating at lower altitudes, and WEP should be used sparingly. Usage of Manual Engine Controls will slow down the overheating, but not eliminate it. Engine performance above 5,000 m is lacking compared to aircraft of other nations.The armament, while perfectly adequate against fighters, will struggle against heavier targets, and engaging heavy bombers is not recommended unless you're confident in your ability to get a pilot snipe. Due to a somewhat low wing rip speed, most aircraft will outdive you. The acceleration below 200 km/h IAS is poor compared to most fighters, and stall fighting should be avoided unless you started the fight with an energy advantage.
 +
 
 +
After takeoff, you should immediately start climbing up to 5,000 m. The optimal climb speed is around 250 km/h IAS. When initially engaged with the enemy, it's best to start off the fight slowly. Avoid losing altitude immediately. Try to employ hit and run tactics and conserve your ammo. Once all of the enemies in the area start dogfighting and losing altitude, it's time to become more aggressive. With the loss of altitude, you can start to capitalize on your excellent low down engine performance. Stick to boom and zoom tactics if possible, but don't be afraid of engaging in dogfights if necessary. If you find yourself in a bad situation, know that you can outrun and outaccelerate just about any plane that you can meet. Use your superior speed to disengage, and then re-engage after you've built up and energy advantage.
 +
 
 +
==== In ground & naval battles ====
 +
The Yak-9U offers no bombs, rockets or any secondary payloads, it is an air supremacy fighter armed only with machine guns and cannons. They must be used to defend your ground forces or naval fleets from enemy bombers and fighter bombers. Stay high, use the boom and zoom tactics to your advantage - do not strafe tanks or ships, the 20 mm cannons only offer 120 rounds which will be needed in any air to air combat engagement.
  
 
=== Manual Engine Control ===
 
=== Manual Engine Control ===
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! rowspan="2" | Turbocharger
 
! rowspan="2" | Turbocharger
 
|-
 
|-
−
! Oil
+
! Oil !! Water !! Type
−
! Water
 
−
! Type
 
 
|-
 
|-
−
| Controllable || rowspan="2" | Controllable<br>Not auto controlled || rowspan="2" | Controllable<br>Not auto controlled || rowspan="2" | Controllable<br>Auto control available || rowspan="2" | Separate || rowspan="2" | Controllable<br>2 gears || rowspan="2" | Not controllable
+
| Controllable || Controllable<br>Not auto controlled || Controllable<br>Not auto controlled || Controllable<br>Auto control available || Separate || Controllable<br>2 gears || Not controllable
−
|-
 
−
|}
 
−
 
 
−
=== Modules ===
 
−
{| class="wikitable"
 
−
! colspan="1" | Tier
 
−
! colspan="2" | Flight performance
 
−
! colspan="1" | Survivability
 
−
! colspan="1" | Weaponry
 
−
|-
 
−
| I
 
−
| Fuselage repair
 
−
| Radiator
 
−
|
 
−
| Offensive 12 mm
 
−
|-
 
−
| II
 
−
|
 
−
| Compressor
 
−
| Airframe
 
−
| New 12 mm MGs
 
−
|-
 
−
| III
 
−
| Wings repair
 
−
| Engine
 
−
|
 
−
| Offensive 20 mm
 
−
|-
 
−
| IV
 
−
| 100 octane fuel usage
 
−
| Engine injection
 
−
| Cover
 
−
| New 20 mm cannons
 
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
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'''Pros:'''
 
'''Pros:'''
  
−
* One of the fastest Russian prop-planes
+
* Excellent cockpit visibility
−
* MEC negates overheating, set radiator to 100%/75% at low/high altitudes respectively
+
* Good handling and manoeuvrability at most speeds
−
* Excellent cockpit visibility (for SB battles)
+
* Good energy retention
−
* Excellent handling and manoeuvrability at most speed bands
 
−
* Good rate of turn
 
 
* Good rate of climb
 
* Good rate of climb
−
* Performs identically to the 5.0/5.7 (RB) Yak-9P and Yak-9UT while being at 4.3 BR
+
* Excellent acceleration above 150 km/h IAS
 +
* Performs identically to the Yak-9P and Yak-9UT while being at a lower BR
 
* Nose-mounted weaponry
 
* Nose-mounted weaponry
  
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* Relatively low ammo count
 
* Relatively low ammo count
−
* Does not excel in any specific occupation
+
* Weaponry inadequate against sturdy targets
−
* Average dive performance
+
* Overheating is a very real issue, MEC will only delay it
−
* Rips easily in a dive
+
* Lower wing rip speed than most of its peers
−
* Overheating is a very real issue, do not abuse the throttle
+
* Low thrust below 150 km/h IAS
−
* Often skipped in the tech tree by players, heavily underrated
 
  
 
== History ==
 
== History ==
−
<!-- ''Describe the history of the creation and combat usage of the aircraft in more detail than in the introduction. If the historical reference turns out to be too long, take it to a separate article, taking a link to the article about the vehicle and adding a block "/ History" (example: <nowiki>https://wiki.warthunder.com/(Vehicle-name)/History</nowiki>) and add a link to it here using the <code>main</code> template. Be sure to reference text and sources by using <code><nowiki><ref></ref></nowiki></code>, as well as adding them at the end of the article with <code><nowiki><references /></nowiki></code>. This section may also include the vehicle's dev blog entry (if applicable) and the in-game encyclopedia description (under <code><nowiki>=== In-game description ===</nowiki></code>, also if applicable).'' -->
+
<!-- ''Describe the history of the creation and combat usage of the aircraft in more detail than in the introduction. If the historical reference turns out to be too long, take it to a separate article, taking a link to the article about the vehicle and adding a block "/History" (example: <nowiki>https://wiki.warthunder.com/(Vehicle-name)/History</nowiki>) and add a link to it here using the <code>main</code> template. Be sure to reference text and sources by using <code><nowiki><ref></ref></nowiki></code>, as well as adding them at the end of the article with <code><nowiki><references /></nowiki></code>. This section may also include the vehicle's dev blog entry (if applicable) and the in-game encyclopedia description (under <code><nowiki>=== In-game description ===</nowiki></code>, also if applicable).'' -->
  
 
=== Historical design and development ===
 
=== Historical design and development ===
−
During December 1943, the creation of a new airframe (Yak-9U) allowed the installation of the M-107A engine, which was more powerful than the previous VK-105PF. The engine mount was brand new and included individual faired exhaust pipes, wings, and fuselage structure that was made of metal while the whole aircraft received a covering of Bakelite skin. The horizontal tail surfaces were slightly reduced in order to afford the aircraft improved pitch control. The oil cooler intake was re-positioned from beneath the nose to the port wing root as well as an enlarged radiator bath being moved further aft under the fuselage. A supercharger intake was centred on the top decking of the engine cowling. The rear antenna cable was moved inside a lengthened rear canopy which featured a more aerodynamically refined shape with a modified fuselage deck contour. The  The typical armament of the Yak-9U was a 20mm (79 cal) ShVAK cannon with 120 rounds that was fired through the aircraft's hollow propeller shaft, and two 12.7mm (50 cal) Berezin UB machine guns with 340 rounds.
+
During December 1943, the creation of a new airframe (Yak-9U) allowed the installation of the M-107A engine, which was more powerful than the previous VK-105PF. The engine mount was brand new and included individual faired exhaust pipes, wings, and fuselage structure that was made of metal while the whole aircraft received a covering of Bakelite skin. The horizontal tail surfaces were slightly reduced in order to afford the aircraft improved pitch control. The oil cooler intake was re-positioned from beneath the nose to the port wing root as well as an enlarged radiator bath being moved further aft under the fuselage. A supercharger intake was centred on the top decking of the engine cowling. The rear antenna cable was moved inside a lengthened rear canopy which featured a more aerodynamically refined shape with a modified fuselage deck contour. The typical armament of the Yak-9U was a 20 mm (79 cal) ShVAK cannon with 120 rounds that was fired through the aircraft's hollow propeller shaft, and two 12.7 mm (50 cal) Berezin UB machine guns with 340 rounds.
  
−
[[File:Yakolev Yak-9U Frank.jpg|thumb|Yakolev Yak-9U Frank]]
+
[[File:Yakolev Yak-9U Frank.jpg|thumb|Yakovlev Yak-9U Frank]]
−
January to April 1944 marked the commencement of State trials and revealed that the Yak-9U had a superior top-speed compared to all fighters in service on the Eastern front at 6,000 m (19,685 ft). Unlike the [[I-185 (M-71)|I-185]] the Yak-9U was a much simpler to fly and stable aircraft. Ultimately the M-107A engine inherited all the problems of the VK-105PF engine. The engine was prone to overheating, oil leaks, loss of engine pressure during climbs, spark plugs constantly burning out, and intense vibrations which would fatigue assembly bolts leading to a short engine life. These defects forced the first production batches starting during April 1944  to be powered by the reliable M-105 PF-3 engine. Further changes would include the fuel capacity of the Yak-9U being upgraded to 400L (106 US gal) and in order to re-balance the aircraft, the wings where moved 9.906 centimeters (3.9in) forward and the aircraft's VlSh-107LO propeller being replaced with the older VISH-105S. A total production of 1,134 aircraft where constructed by December 1944.
+
January to April 1944 marked the commencement of State trials and revealed that the Yak-9U had a superior top-speed compared to all fighters in service on the Eastern front at 6,000 m (19,685 ft). Unlike the [[I-185 (M-71)|I-185]] the Yak-9U was a much simpler to fly and stable aircraft. Ultimately the M-107A / VK-107A engine inherited all the problems of the VK-105PF engine. The engine was prone to overheating, oil leaks, loss of engine pressure during climbs, spark plugs constantly burning out, and intense vibrations which would fatigue assembly bolts leading to a short engine life. These defects forced the first production batches starting during April 1944  to be powered by the reliable M-105 PF-3 engine. Further changes would include the fuel capacity of the Yak-9U being upgraded to 400 L (106 US gal) and in order to re-balance the aircraft, the wings where moved 9.906 cm (3.9 in) forward and the aircraft's VlSh-107LO propeller being replaced with the older VISH-105S. A total production of 1,134 aircraft where constructed by December 1944.
  
 
The model in-game does not sport the production batch's modifications as it is the prototype trial model.
 
The model in-game does not sport the production batch's modifications as it is the prototype trial model.
  
−
=== In-game description ===
+
== Media ==
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The Yak-9 was a Soviet single-engine fighter of the WWII era. It was the first combat aircraft designed by Alexander Yakovlev's construction bureau. The most mass-produced Soviet fighter of the war, it remained in production from October 1942 to December 1948, with a total of 16,769 built.
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The Yak-9 was a further modification of the Yak-1 and Yak-7. In its core design, it was a redesign of the Yak-7. With few external differences, Yak-9 was at the same time much more advanced internally. This is not unexpected, as almost two years of design and combat experience of the Yak series went into the Yak-9. Also, at the time aluminium was in much greater supply than it had been two years previously at the start of the war. Amongst other things, the use of metal allowed the plane's weight to be significantly reduced, meaning that more fuel could be stored and that the aircraft could be equipped with more powerful armament and more specialized equipment.
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== Media ==
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* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=yak-9u Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]
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''Excellent additions to the article would be video guides, screenshots from the game, and photos.''
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{{Youtube-gallery|aaTEkyzWsL0|'''{{PAGENAME}}  "Aaand he's dead."''' - ''WeadraPlays''}}
  
 
== See also ==
 
== See also ==
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== External links ==
 
== External links ==
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* [https://old-forum.warthunder.com/index.php?/topic/109524-yakovlev-yak-9u/ Official data sheet - more details about the performance]
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* ''encyclopedia page on the aircraft;''
 
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{{AirManufacturer Yakovlev}}
 
{{AirManufacturer Yakovlev}}
 
{{USSR fighters}}
 
{{USSR fighters}}

Latest revision as of 10:53, 8 November 2024

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This page is about the Soviet fighter Yak-9U. For other versions, see Yak-9 (Family).
Yak-9U
yak-9u.png
GarageImage Yak-9U.jpg
Yak-9U
USSR flag.png USSR
III Rank
Battle rating:
AB RB SB
4.7 4.7 5.0
Class:
Research:17 000 Specs-Card-Exp.png
Purchase:105 000 Specs-Card-Lion.png
Show in game

Description

The Yakovlev Yak-9U was the sixth variant of the Yak-9 fighter aircraft family. The aircraft was based on the Yak-9T and included significant aerodynamic and structural upgrades similar to the Yak-3. The Yak-9U was powered by the new Klimov M-107A engine, which produced 1,650 horsepower. The burst mass was 2.72 kg/s. During early test flights in 1943, the only comparable Soviet fighter was the Polikarpov I-185 prototype, but it was more difficult to fly and less agile due to its heavier weight. Except for the P-51B Mustang, which could achieve 710 km/h, the Yak-9U's peak speed of 700 km/h at 5,600 m was quicker than any other production fighter aircraft in the world at the time. Overheating issues during the test flight stage were resolved by expanding the radiators during production. It was the best high-altitude Soviet fighter of its time. The Yak-9U flew 398 sorties for a total of 299 hours. A total of 26 battles were fought, with the majority of them ending in victory.

Introduced in Update 1.37, the Yak-9U is one of the few Yak fighter planes that excels at operating at high altitudes. Unlike previous Yak-9s that were powered by the Klimov M-/VK-105PF engine, the Yak-9U is powered by the Klimov M-/VK-107A engine. As a result, the Yak-9U is among the quickest planes at sea level in its class. Overall, the Yak-9U combines impressive speed, acceleration, climb, and manoeuvrability but comes with a rather mediocre weaponry for its BR. The Yak-9U's engine improvement lets it maintain good performance up to 5,000 m, allowing players to engage in combat with other high-altitude enemy aircraft without being significantly disadvantaged.

General info

Flight performance

Max speed
at 5 000 m672 km/h
Turn time19 s
Max altitude10 500 m
EngineKlimov M-107A
TypeInline
Cooling systemWater
Take-off weight3 t

The Yak-9U is an up-engined Yak-9 equipped with the M-107A / VK-107A engine. It sports competitive speed, far above average turning and roll abilities, good acceleration, a high dive limit (by USSR standards), and keeps nice and crisp controls from speeds as low as 250 km/h to 750 km/h. It is arguably the most underestimated vehicle rank-for-rank in the game and is often skipped by players who view it as just another Yak-9.

Unlike previous Yak-9s equipped with the M-105PF engine, the Yak-9U gets a significant upgrade in the form of its M-107A engine (re-initialled from 1944 to VK-) (which also happens to be the engine utilized by the premium Yak-3 (VK-107) and the later Yak-9P/UT). As such, the Yak-9U is one of the fastest planes at sea level at this BR and retains excellent performance up to ~6 km where it can effectively engage higher-speed American and faster climbing German planes. This, combined with the excellent handling and turn-fighting qualities allow the Yak-9U to effectively dictate any engagement- a pilot can turn-fight Bf 109s and P-47s with ease while having the capability to outrun slower yet more manoeuvrable vehicles such as the Spitfire.

At sea level, the Yak-9U can catch most, if not all, planes at its BR, including P-47 and P-51D. Beware, however, as the Yak airframe isn't particularly durable in a dive and will rip at speeds above 720 km/h IAS. Thankfully, forcing an opponent down low effectively seals their fate as you and your team perform optimally at low altitude.

Characteristics Max Speed
(km/h at 5,000 m) 		Max altitude
(metres) 		Turn time
(seconds) 		Rate of climb
(metres/second) 		Take-off run
(metres)
AB RB AB RB AB RB
Stock 646 631 10500 20.1 20.7 14.9 14.9 380
Upgraded 699 677 18.6 19.1 22.9 18.8

Details

Features
Combat flaps Take-off flaps Landing flaps Air brakes Arrestor gear
X X ✓ X X
Limits
Wings (km/h) Gear (km/h) Flaps (km/h) Max Static G
Combat Take-off Landing + -
720 320 N/A N/A 280 ~12 ~9
Optimal velocities (km/h)
Ailerons Rudder Elevators Radiator
< 400 < 420 < 490 > 450

Survivability and armour

Crew1 person
Speed of destruction
Structural0 km/h
Gear320 km/h
  • 64 mm Bulletproof glass in cockpit front and rear.
  • 8 mm Steel plate behind the pilot.

Modifications and economy

Repair costBasic → Reference
AB1 120 → 1 713 Sl icon.png
RB2 701 → 4 132 Sl icon.png
SB4 111 → 6 289 Sl icon.png
Total cost of modifications29 700 Rp icon.png
58 100 Sl icon.png
Talisman cost1 200 Ge icon.png
Crew training30 000 Sl icon.png
Experts105 000 Sl icon.png
Aces590 Ge icon.png
Research Aces360 000 Rp icon.png
Reward for battleAB / RB / SB
70 / 160 / 330 % Sl icon.png
148 / 148 / 148 % Rp icon.png
Modifications
Flight performance Survivability Weaponry
Mods aerodinamic fuse.png
Fuselage repair
Research:
2 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
3 900 Sl icon.png
160 Ge icon.png
Mods radiator.png
Radiator
Research:
2 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
3 900 Sl icon.png
160 Ge icon.png
Mods compressor.png
Compressor
Research:
2 200 Rp icon.png
Cost:
4 300 Sl icon.png
175 Ge icon.png
Mods aerodinamic wing.png
Wings repair
Research:
2 500 Rp icon.png
Cost:
4 900 Sl icon.png
200 Ge icon.png
Mods new engine.png
Engine
Research:
2 500 Rp icon.png
Cost:
4 900 Sl icon.png
200 Ge icon.png
Mods oil.png
100 octane fuel usage
Research:
2 400 Rp icon.png
Cost:
4 700 Sl icon.png
195 Ge icon.png
Mods metanol.png
Engine injection
Research:
2 400 Rp icon.png
Cost:
4 700 Sl icon.png
195 Ge icon.png
Mods armor frame.png
Airframe
Research:
2 200 Rp icon.png
Cost:
4 300 Sl icon.png
175 Ge icon.png
Mods armor cover.png
Cover
Research:
2 400 Rp icon.png
Cost:
4 700 Sl icon.png
195 Ge icon.png
Mods ammo.png
ub_belt_pack
Research:
2 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
3 900 Sl icon.png
160 Ge icon.png
Mod arrow 0.png
Mods weapon.png
ub_new_gun
Research:
2 200 Rp icon.png
Cost:
4 300 Sl icon.png
175 Ge icon.png
Mods ammo.png
shvak_belt_pack
Research:
2 500 Rp icon.png
Cost:
4 900 Sl icon.png
200 Ge icon.png
Mod arrow 0.png
Mods weapon.png
shvak_new_gun
Research:
2 400 Rp icon.png
Cost:
4 700 Sl icon.png
195 Ge icon.png

Armaments

Offensive armament

Weapon 120 mm ShVAK cannon
Ammunition120 rounds
Fire rate800 shots/min
Weapon 22 x 12.7 mm Berezin UBS machine gun
Ammunition340 rounds
Fire rate996 shots/min
Main articles: ShVAK (20 mm), Berezin UB (12.7 mm)

The Yak-9U is armed with:

  • 1 x 20 mm ShVAK cannon, nose-mounted (120 rpg)
  • 2 x 12.7 mm Berezin UB machine guns, nose-mounted (170 rpg = 340 total)

Usage in battles

The Yak-9U offers incredible speed, acceleration, climb and manoeuvrability with the same complementary firepower. Unlike its VK-105 powered predecessors, which suffered significant power loss above 3,500 m, the VK-107 engine of the Yak-9U retains decent performance up to 5,000 m, allowing you to partake in the initial dogfight of a match without being at a massive disadvantage. Once the air battle has gone down to a lower altitude, your engine performance will go from good to incredible. With a sea level top speed of nearly 600 km/h there's not many planes that can catch or outrun you. Your acceleration, climb rate and energy retention are superior to most other aircraft as well. The turn rate, while not top notch, is still better than a good portion of your competition.

However, the Yak-9U is not without its flaws. The engine suffers from overheating at lower altitudes, and WEP should be used sparingly. Usage of Manual Engine Controls will slow down the overheating, but not eliminate it. Engine performance above 5,000 m is lacking compared to aircraft of other nations.The armament, while perfectly adequate against fighters, will struggle against heavier targets, and engaging heavy bombers is not recommended unless you're confident in your ability to get a pilot snipe. Due to a somewhat low wing rip speed, most aircraft will outdive you. The acceleration below 200 km/h IAS is poor compared to most fighters, and stall fighting should be avoided unless you started the fight with an energy advantage.

After takeoff, you should immediately start climbing up to 5,000 m. The optimal climb speed is around 250 km/h IAS. When initially engaged with the enemy, it's best to start off the fight slowly. Avoid losing altitude immediately. Try to employ hit and run tactics and conserve your ammo. Once all of the enemies in the area start dogfighting and losing altitude, it's time to become more aggressive. With the loss of altitude, you can start to capitalize on your excellent low down engine performance. Stick to boom and zoom tactics if possible, but don't be afraid of engaging in dogfights if necessary. If you find yourself in a bad situation, know that you can outrun and outaccelerate just about any plane that you can meet. Use your superior speed to disengage, and then re-engage after you've built up and energy advantage.

In ground & naval battles

The Yak-9U offers no bombs, rockets or any secondary payloads, it is an air supremacy fighter armed only with machine guns and cannons. They must be used to defend your ground forces or naval fleets from enemy bombers and fighter bombers. Stay high, use the boom and zoom tactics to your advantage - do not strafe tanks or ships, the 20 mm cannons only offer 120 rounds which will be needed in any air to air combat engagement.

Manual Engine Control

MEC elements
Mixer Pitch Radiator Supercharger Turbocharger
Oil Water Type
Controllable Controllable
Not auto controlled 		Controllable
Not auto controlled 		Controllable
Auto control available 		Separate Controllable
2 gears 		Not controllable

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Excellent cockpit visibility
  • Good handling and manoeuvrability at most speeds
  • Good energy retention
  • Good rate of climb
  • Excellent acceleration above 150 km/h IAS
  • Performs identically to the Yak-9P and Yak-9UT while being at a lower BR
  • Nose-mounted weaponry

Cons:

  • Relatively low ammo count
  • Weaponry inadequate against sturdy targets
  • Overheating is a very real issue, MEC will only delay it
  • Lower wing rip speed than most of its peers
  • Low thrust below 150 km/h IAS

History

Historical design and development

During December 1943, the creation of a new airframe (Yak-9U) allowed the installation of the M-107A engine, which was more powerful than the previous VK-105PF. The engine mount was brand new and included individual faired exhaust pipes, wings, and fuselage structure that was made of metal while the whole aircraft received a covering of Bakelite skin. The horizontal tail surfaces were slightly reduced in order to afford the aircraft improved pitch control. The oil cooler intake was re-positioned from beneath the nose to the port wing root as well as an enlarged radiator bath being moved further aft under the fuselage. A supercharger intake was centred on the top decking of the engine cowling. The rear antenna cable was moved inside a lengthened rear canopy which featured a more aerodynamically refined shape with a modified fuselage deck contour. The typical armament of the Yak-9U was a 20 mm (79 cal) ShVAK cannon with 120 rounds that was fired through the aircraft's hollow propeller shaft, and two 12.7 mm (50 cal) Berezin UB machine guns with 340 rounds.

Yakovlev Yak-9U Frank

January to April 1944 marked the commencement of State trials and revealed that the Yak-9U had a superior top-speed compared to all fighters in service on the Eastern front at 6,000 m (19,685 ft). Unlike the I-185 the Yak-9U was a much simpler to fly and stable aircraft. Ultimately the M-107A / VK-107A engine inherited all the problems of the VK-105PF engine. The engine was prone to overheating, oil leaks, loss of engine pressure during climbs, spark plugs constantly burning out, and intense vibrations which would fatigue assembly bolts leading to a short engine life. These defects forced the first production batches starting during April 1944 to be powered by the reliable M-105 PF-3 engine. Further changes would include the fuel capacity of the Yak-9U being upgraded to 400 L (106 US gal) and in order to re-balance the aircraft, the wings where moved 9.906 cm (3.9 in) forward and the aircraft's VlSh-107LO propeller being replaced with the older VISH-105S. A total production of 1,134 aircraft where constructed by December 1944.

The model in-game does not sport the production batch's modifications as it is the prototype trial model.

Media

Skins
Videos
Yak-9U "Aaand he's dead." - WeadraPlays

See also

Links to the articles on the War Thunder Wiki that you think will be useful for the reader, for example:

  • reference to the series of the aircraft;
  • links to approximate analogues of other nations and research trees.

External links


A.S. Yakovlev Design Bureau (Яковлев Опытное конструкторское бюро)
Fighters 
Yak-1  Yak-1 · Yak-1B
Yak-3  Yak-3 · Eremin's Yak-3(e) · Yak-3 (VK-107) · Yak-3P · Yak-3T · Yak-3U
Yak-7  Yak-7B
Yak-9  Yak-9 · Yak-9B · Yak-9K · Golovachev's Yak-9M · Yak-9P · Yak-9T · Yak-9U · Yak-9UT
Twin-engine fighters  I-29
Jet fighters 
Yak-15  Yak-15P · Yak-15
Yak-17  Yak-17
Yak-23  Yak-23
Yak-30  Yak-30D
Yak-141  Yak-141
Strike aircraft 
Yak-2  Yak-2 KABB
Yak-38  Yak-38 · Yak-38M
Bombers  Yak-4
Jet bombers  Yak-28B
Foreign use  ▄Yak-3 · Challe's ▄Yak-9T · ◔Yak-9P
Captured  ▀Yak-1B

USSR fighters
I-15  I-15 WR · I-15 M-22 · I-15 M-25 · I-15bis · Krasnolutsky's I-15bis
  I-153 M-62 · Zhukovsky's I-153-M62 · I-153P
I-16  I-16 type 5 · I-16 type 10 · I-16 type 18 · I-16 type 24 · I-16 type 27 · I-16 type 28 · I-180S
I-29  I-29
I-185  I-185 (M-71) · I-185 (M-82)
I-225  I-225
ITP  ITP (M-1)
MiG-3  MiG-3-15 · MiG-3-15 (BK) · MiG-3-34
LaGG  I-301 · LaGG-3-4 · LaGG-3-8 · LaGG-3-11 · LaGG-3-23 · LaGG-3-34 · LaGG-3-35 · LaGG-3-66
La  La-5 · La-5F · La-5FN · La-7 · Dolgushin's La-7 · La-7B-20 · La-9 · La-11
Yak-1/7  Yak-1 · Yak-1B · Yak-7B
Yak-3  Yak-3 · Eremin's Yak-3(e) · Yak-3P · Yak-3T · Yak-3U · Yak-3 (VK-107)
Yak-9  Yak-9 · Yak-9B · Golovachev's Yak-9M · Yak-9T · Yak-9K · Yak-9U · Yak-9UT · Yak-9P
Other countries  ▂P-40E-1 · ▂P-47D-27 · ▂Hurricane Mk IIB · ▂Fw 190 D-9 · ▂Spitfire Mk IXc
P-39  ▂P-39K-1 · ▂Pokryshkin's P-39N-0 · ▂P-39Q-15
P-63  ▂P-63A-5 · ▂P-63A-10 · ▂P-63C-5

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