Yak-28, A.S.Yakovlev 'Brewer A/B/C'

The Yak-28 is a streamlined, swept-wing bomber with large engines under the wing.

Despite similarity in appearance with Yak-25, Yak-26, Yak-27 family it was a completely new design. First introduced to the West at Tushino airshow (in three modifications), aircraft was identified as a fighter and got designation 'Flashlight'.

Once NATO expert figured out that it comes into service as a bomber, the nickname was changed to 'Brewer'. Later all-weather interceptor version was named 'Firebar'... First bomber version ('Brewer-A') did not enter mass production. Few batches of 'Brewer-B' revealed insufficient room for navigator-operator, and following mass series of 'Brewer-C' had longer nose section and longer engine inlet ducts.

Some remained in service until recently, mainly as electronic warfare aircraft.

Yak-28U 'Maestro' is a trainer.

Retired in 1992 (?).

Developments/Modifications :

· Yak-28P 'Firebar' - fighter version;

· Yak-28R 'Brewer-D' - Reconnaissance version with extensively glazed nose ("swept cut") and underbelly radar blister;

· Yak-28PP 'Brewer-E' - ECM (Electronic Warfare) modification;

· Yak-28U 'Maestro' - trainers with instructor cockpit behind the pilot's one.